Milan Eyeing Left-Back Options as Theo Hernandez’s Future Unclear
AC Milan, the storied Rossoneri, are in a challenging position as they face the potential departure of their star left-back, Theo Hernandez. The club is reluctant to let him leave on a free transfer in 2026, and as such, they are actively exploring options to replace him in the summer. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport (via Mediaset), Milan has shortlisted two promising candidates: Maxim De Cuyper from Club Brugge and Nuno Tavares from Lazio. Both players have caught the eye of the club’s scouts, and each brings a unique set of skills that could potentially fill the void left by Hernandez.
Maxim De Cuyper: A Fine Assist Man with European Experience
Milan has been closely monitoring the progress of Maxim De Cuyper, a 24-year-old Belgian defender who has been a key player for Club Brugge this season. De Cuyper’s involvement in the Champions League playoff, where he helped eliminate Atalanta, has only bolstered his reputation. While he may not possess the same explosive pace as Theo Hernandez, De Cuyper is a formidable assist man, having provided five assists this campaign and 20 in 97 appearances for Club Brugge. His versatility and impressive track record in European competition make him a strong candidate for the Rossoneri. Additionally, De Cuyper has made six appearances for the Belgian national team, showcasing his talent on an international stage with a goal to his name. The estimated transfer fee of around €20 million for De Cuyper is relatively reasonable, making him a viable and cost-effective option for Milan.
Nuno Tavares: A High-Priced but Highly Productive Portuguese International
The second name on Milan’s radar is Nuno Tavares, the Portuguese international currently playing for Lazio. Tavares has had a notable start to his career with Lazio, displaying impressive form and productivity on the left flank. However, his performances have been somewhat marred by a couple of injuries, which have slowed him down. Despite this, he remains one of the most assist-prolific fullbacks in Serie A, having provided eight assists this season. Tavares’s potential comes at a higher price, as Lazio is not in a hurry to sell him. Moreover, part of the transfer fee would need to be paid to Arsenal, his former club, complicating the negotiations. This makes the Portuguese defender a more expensive and complex acquisition for Milan, but his talent and proven track record in Serie A are undeniable.
The Theo Hernandez Conundrum
Theo Hernandez has been a crucial player for Milan, combining offensive flair with solid defensive skills. His contract situation, however, has become a source of anxiety for the club. Some within the Milan hierarchy fear that Hernandez might stay even without signing an extension, a scenario that could see him leave on a free transfer in 2026. This is a significant concern, as losing a player of his caliber without any compensation would be a major setback. Hernandez’s disengagement in the final year of his contract could also negatively impact the team’s performance. As a result, Milan is exploring various avenues to ensure they either secure an extension or find a suitable replacement before the summer.
Strategic Considerations for Milan
While both De Cuyper and Tavares are fine contributors, Milan’s decision on who to pursue should be guided by their broader strategic considerations. One key factor is the balance of the team. A defensive-minded left-back could alter the geometry of the squad, making it easier to field four attackers together, a formation that has been successful for Milan in the past. This adjustment could also help in maintaining a solid defensive line, which is essential for competitive matches. The club’s ability to retain Joao Felix and the identity of their coach in the upcoming season will also play a critical role in shaping their approach to this transfer.
Evaluating the Options
The choice between De Cuyper and Tavares is not straightforward. De Cuyper’s experience in European competitions and his reasonable transfer fee make him an attractive option for Milan. His ability to contribute assists regularly and his performances at the international level suggest he is ready for the step up to a top club like Milan. On the other hand, Tavares’s proven track record in Serie A and his defensive and offensive abilities are compelling arguments in his favor. However, the higher transfer fee and the complex negotiations with Lazio and Arsenal could be significant hurdles. Milan’s scouts and technical staff will need to weigh the pros and cons carefully to make the best decision for the club’s future.
The Final Decision
Ultimately, Milan’s decision will hinge on a combination of factors, including financial considerations, the current state of the team, and the club’s long-term vision. The club must ensure that they either secure Theo Hernandez’s future with a contract extension or find a replacement who can seamlessly integrate into the team and contribute at a high level. Both De Cuyper and Tavares are worthy candidates, but the right choice will depend on how Milan’s management and coaching staff envision their tactical and strategic directions. The upcoming months will be crucial in determining the path forward for the Rossoneri and their left-back position.
