Left-back Theo Hernandez is trading in the glitz and glamour of the capital city for the coastal charms and world-class cuisine of San Sebastian.
Real Sociedad announced Friday that they signed the 20-year-old French full-back on a season-long loan from Real Madrid, adding that the player underwent a successful medical and will be unveiled in the coming days. The statement did not mention if the loan terms include an option to buy.
Relegated to backup duty behind Marcelo at the Santiago Bernabeu, a move to Basque country for the younger brother of World Cup winner Lucas Hernandez should provide ample opportunity for first-team minutes. The Atletico Madrid academy product appeared in 13 league affairs last season deputizing for the Brazilian star following a campaign on loan with Alaves.
With the Spanish transfer window set to slam shut on the last day of August, should Real not opt to bolster the left-back position with a signing, either veteran Fabio Coentrao or recently promoted youngster Sergio Reguilon will play backup to Marcelo as Julen Lopetegui kicks off his Los Blancos tenure. Reguilon, 21, impressed during the club's preseason tilts with Manchester United and Juventus.
