Why Man City Are Targeting Theo Hernandez to Solve Their Left-Back Problem | OneFootball

Manchester City’s Interest in Theo Hernandez – Transfer Strategy Taking Shape

Manchester City’s left-back search appears to be intensifying, with AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez emerging as a serious target. TEAMtalk’s Italian football correspondent Rudy Galetti has confirmed that City have Hernandez on their radar, with a potential €35million (£29.4m) bid being prepared.

With City’s Premier League title defence faltering, Pep Guardiola is looking to strengthen key areas of the squad, and left-back remains an issue. Josko Gvardiol has operated in the role, but he is more comfortable as a centre-back. If City fail to land their first-choice target, Andrea Cambiasso, then a move for Hernandez could follow.

However, competition from Real Madrid could complicate the situation. TEAMtalk has reported that the Spanish giants are keen on bringing Hernandez back to the Bernabeu, and crucially, the player is reportedly open to the move.

Photo IMAGO

Why Milan Are Willing to Sell Hernandez

AC Milan’s decision to offload Hernandez appears to be driven by two factors:

Milan legend Paolo Maldini, speaking to MilanTV in November 2022, described Hernandez’s pace as having “something incredible”, highlighting his explosive ability on the flank. However, that dynamism has not been as evident this season.

His Champions League red card against Feyenoord did not help his standing among Milan fans, and the club appears ready to move on.

How Hernandez Compares to City’s Current Options

Manchester City’s left-back position has been a concern for several seasons. Guardiola has often relied on makeshift solutions, with Nathan Aké, Joško Gvardiol, and even Bernardo Silva filling in at times.

Hernandez offers natural width, pace, and attacking intent—attributes that fit City’s possession-based, high-intensity system. While not as technically refined as João Cancelo, he provides a direct approach that could benefit City’s attacking play.

Photo: IMAGO

However, if City land Hernandez, their interest in Cambiasso will be dropped, according to TuttoJuve. The decision will likely hinge on availability, pricing, and whether Milan are willing to negotiate below the reported €40million (£33m) release clause.

Real Madrid’s Interest Poses a Challenge

City are not alone in the race. TEAMtalk reports that Real Madrid are also keen to re-sign Hernandez, having previously allowed him to leave in 2019.

Madrid’s need for a long-term replacement for Ferland Mendy means they could prioritise Hernandez’s return. TEAMtalk sources indicate that Hernandez is open to the move, which could make City’s task even harder.

If Madrid formally enter negotiations, City may be forced to act quickly or risk losing their backup option entirely.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester City, the need for a natural left-back has been apparent for years. Guardiola has often deployed makeshift solutions, and while Gvardiol is an outstanding defender, his attacking output from full-back remains limited.

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Hernandez’s pace, drive, and attacking instinct would add a different dynamic to City’s play, allowing Guardiola to stretch the pitch and create more width against defensive opposition.

However, concerns remain:

Ultimately, City need reinforcements, and if they act decisively, Hernandez could be a valuable addition. However, Madrid’s interest could dictate the pace of negotiations, and City may have to move quickly if they truly want him.