According to reports from The Sun, Fulham are interested in signing Real Madrid star Theo Hernandez on a season-long loan deal. The former Atleti fullback appeared out of touch during his first season at the Bernabeu and the European champions are likely to ship him out this summer.
It is believed that the Cottagers are willing to offer Real Madrid £1.75 million in order to lure the player to London with Madrid likely to retain a buy-back option. He was previously linked with a move to Real Sociedad. But, La Real reportedly can’t afford his wages, which has served as a blessing for Fulham, it seems.
Player stats – Pros and cons
Generally advertised as an attack-minded full-back, Theo Hernandez is someone who likes to use his offensive attributes to provide a threat to the opposition defence. While he may not have the similar attributes as compared to the mercurial Marcelo, he is definitely more sound.
In fact, he was rated as the new Sergio Ramos by the Real Madrid scouts back when he initially moved to the Bernabeu last summer. But, it’s his intelligence and craft which makes him a unique component in defence.
Despite a disappointing season, the Frenchman attempted 2.5 tackles per game along with just over 1 interception, which is certainly not bad for a fullback. In addition, he has also made 1 clearance and attempted over 3 dribbles per game, which is significantly more than Marcelo.
However, he may want to improve on his productivity in the final third, if he is to establish himself as an offensive left-back. Even more so in the Premier League, where crosses become a key part of the game, the Frenchman will want to improve on his key pass ratio.
Why do Fulham need him?
Theo Hernandez will be a fantastic signing for Fulham due to their lack of options in the left-back position. In fact, head coach Slavisa Jokanovic apparently has no reliable option in the left-back department following the departure of Matt Targett, who moved back to his parent club Southampton at the end of last season.
As a result, the newly promoted Premier League side are in dire need of someone who can not only replace him but also strengthen their defensive department. And Hernandez is an ideal candidate, given his quality and potential.
Thus, the Fulham fans should be excited by the arrival of this highly talented Frenchman, who is more than capable of making a difference at West London next season.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
