Ajax face PL, Bundesliga competition for Henderson – sources

Ajax are interested in signing Jordan Henderson from Al Ettifaq, sources have told ESPN, but face competition from the Premier League and Bundesliga for the England midfielder's signature.

Former Liverpool captain Henderson, who left Anfield last summer, is reportedly keen to return to the Premier League just months after joining Saudi Arabia as part of an exodus of high-profile names to the league in development.

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Henderson's salary represents an issue for Ajax, a source told ESPN, but they see the 33-year-old's experience and position in midfield as areas for strengthening. Ajax are fifth in the Eredivisie after recovering from a poor start to the season.

Two unnamed Premier League clubs and a Bundesliga side are also interested in signing Henderson, sources said.

Henderson joined former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard at Al Ettifaq in July 2023 after ending a 12-year stay at Anfield which saw him win the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, Super UEFA Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

However, his departure caused controversy due to the criminalization of homosexuality in Saudi Arabia. Henderson had been an advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights during his time at Liverpool.

The news of Henderson's desire to leave comes as a further setback for Gerrard who recently called for reinforcements for his squad during the January transfer window. Gerrard also saw his assistant Ian Foster leave to take a managerial role at Plymouth Argyle earlier this month.

Al Ettifaq are eighth in the Saudi Pro League, 28 points behind leaders Al Hilal and without a win in eight league matches dating back to October 28.

ESPN's Okko van de Berkt contributed to this report.