According to reports, Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has allegedly agreed verbally to join the Saudi Arabian team Al-Ettifaq, known for their dominance in the country. This move would see the 33-year-old midfielder reunite with former teammate Steven Gerrard, who now manages the Saudi Pro League side.
Initially, it was believed that Henderson would reject the opportunity to play with Gerrard again in favor of staying at Liverpool. Currently under contract for another two seasons, he seemed committed to the club. However, recent rumors suggest that the English international is now considering joining Al-Ettifaq due to a significant increase in wages. It is speculated that his weekly salary could quadruple from £190,000 at Liverpool.
Noted transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reveals that Henderson has given his approval to the move, having reached a verbal agreement in principle with Gerrard’s team. Furthermore, Henderson reportedly met with Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Thursday, and it seems Klopp will not stand in his captain’s way if he decides to leave this summer.
Nevertheless, there are still obstacles to overcome before the deal is finalized. Al-Ettifaq must negotiate a transfer fee with Liverpool since the Merseyside club is unwilling to terminate Henderson’s contract without compensation. Reports suggest that Liverpool is demanding a £10 million fee, with the majority expected to be paid upfront.
If the deal goes through, Henderson’s departure would mark the end of a remarkable 12-year tenure at Liverpool. The club signed him from Sunderland for €18 million (£15.4 million) in 2011, and since then, Henderson has made an impressive 492 appearances for the Reds. During this time, he has scored 33 goals, provided 61 assists, and lifted eight major trophies, including the EFL Cup in his debut season.
After succeeding Gerrard as captain, Henderson led Liverpool to further success, securing titles such as the Champions League, Premier League, Club World Cup, FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and Community Shield. His contributions were recognized individually as well, as he was named the FWA Footballer of the Year and earned a place in the PFA Team of the Year during the 2019-20 season when Liverpool clinched their first-ever Premier League title.
Although Henderson did not score last season, he played a significant role for Klopp, contributing three assists in 43 matches. However, with the new signings of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, his playing time next season could potentially be limited.
Liverpool has already bid farewell to players such as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita, and James Milner, who departed for free following the expiration of their contracts. Additionally, they have decided against making Arthur’s loan move from Juventus permanent. The club also saw young talent Leighton Clarkson transfer to Aberdeen, while there is uncertainty surrounding the futures of Thiago Alcantara and Fabinho.