Ajax manager John van ‘t Schip has openly expressed the club’s interest in securing the services of seasoned midfielder Jordan Henderson from Al-Ettifaq.
The 33-year-old, keen on returning to European football after a brief stint in Saudi Arabia, faces a potential tug-of-war between his aspirations and Al-Ettifaq’s reluctance to part ways, especially under the management of Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard.
While Henderson’s desire for a European comeback is clear, Al-Ettifaq appears adamant, possibly seeking a substantial transfer fee for the experienced player.
The rumored £12 million figure could be a point of negotiation, and Ajax, eager to bolster their squad, is reportedly exploring a permanent deal with an 18-month contract, offering more stability compared to other clubs, including Juventus, who have proposed a loan arrangement.
As the transfer saga unfolds, the Saudis’ concerns about the message it might send regarding the competitiveness of their league and domestic football could add a layer of complexity to Henderson’s potential departure.
The player, with two-and-a-half years left on his contract, becomes a sought-after asset in the January transfer window, setting the stage for negotiations and potential moves that could reshape the midfielder’s European journey.