Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson is currently contemplating a potential departure from Anfield after 12 years at the club. The midfielder has received a lucrative offer from Al-Ettifaq, the new club managed by Steven Gerrard in Saudi Arabia. Initially hesitant to uproot his family and relocate to the Middle East, Henderson is now seriously considering a two-year contract that would double his current £200,000-a-week Liverpool wages, with the option of a third year included.
While no formal bid has been submitted by Al-Ettifaq, it is expected that one will be made in the coming days if Henderson shows a willingness to pursue the unexpected transfer. Before making a decision, the 33-year-old is likely to hold discussions with Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp regarding his prospects of regular playing time in the upcoming season. The outcome of these talks may heavily influence Henderson’s final choice.
Having made 43 appearances for Liverpool last season and with two years remaining on his contract, Henderson remains a vital figure both on and off the pitch for Klopp’s team. The departure of former vice-captain James Milner to Brighton, along with the exits of Naby Keïta and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on free transfers, further emphasizes Henderson’s importance as a leader within the squad.
Competition for places in Liverpool’s midfield has intensified with the arrivals of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai for significant fees. Additionally, Klopp has at his disposal a total of nine midfielders, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, who successfully transitioned into a hybrid midfield role towards the end of last season. The development of young talents like Curtis Jones and Stefan Bajcetic has also expanded the options available to the Liverpool manager.
In addition to Henderson, midfielder Thiago Alcântara has also attracted interest from the Saudi Pro League. Klopp remains interested in acquiring Southampton’s defensive midfielder, Roméo Lavia, a highly valued prospect at £50 million following his club’s relegation.
Henderson must also consider the potential impact of a move to Saudi Arabia on his international career. As an influential player for Gareth Southgate’s England team during the 2022 World Cup, he may be reluctant to jeopardize his place in the national squad ahead of next summer’s European Championships in Germany.
The next steps for Jordan Henderson will be crucial as he weighs the financial allure, playing opportunities, and potential international ramifications of a possible move to Al-Ettifaq.
