CM: Rising tensions and Maldini meeting – what filters about Theo Hernandez’s Milan future | OneFootball

Theo Hernandez could well be heading into his final few months with AC Milan, as his performance levels continue to be a shadow of his former self.

According to Calciomercato.com, negotiations for Theo’s renewal are struggling to accelerate. The doubts about the French full-back’s future arise from questionable on-field behaviour (red cards, the cooling break incident and more) plus performances that are clearly below his usual high standards.

Even against Lecce, we saw some flashes of the real Theo with the assists for the two disallowed goals, but it was certainly not a completely sufficient performance, especially in the defensive phase where he struggled on both goals.

The tension between the parties seems to be becoming increasingly palpable, because while there is no advancement in renewal talks it has become apparent that Milan are looking at his replacement. Maxim De Cuyper of Club Brugge – worth around €22-25m – is the main name in this regard.

Furthermore, there is a piece of news that has just arrived in the last few hours. As reported by Stefano Donati of TeleLombardia, Theo and Paolo Maldini had a long coffee together yesterday afternoon.

It was a friendly meeting between two people who have kept in touch after the successul years spent together at Milan, culminating with the Scudetto under the management of head coach Stefano Pioli. It was a period of joy and glory, a moment that stands in stark contrast to the current state of affairs.

Now, the feeling is that the summer could mark a farewell for the left-back, who will be 12 months from the expiry of his deal in June. That will probably force the Diavolo to accept €25-30m for his sale, but the final verdict as always will come on the pitch.