Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson is set to depart Saudi Pro League club Al Ettifaq after just six months, with Ajax emerging as his potential destination. Henderson’s decision follows a mutual agreement to cancel the three-year deal he signed with Al Ettifaq last summer, paving the way for a move to the Eredivisie.
The midfielder’s brief stint in Saudi Arabia was marked by controversy, particularly concerning criticisms from gay rights groups due to the country’s stance on homosexuality.
Henderson to Ajax – “Here We Go” Coming Soon
Henderson, who earned around £350,000-a-week at Al Ettifaq under the management of his ex-teammate Steven Gerrard, faced scrutiny for his association with a club in a nation where homosexuality is illegal.
Henderson, realizing the potential impact on his European Championship selection, expedited his departure from Saudi Arabia. His move to Ajax is expected to provide a fresh start, with the Dutch club currently positioned fifth in the Eredivisie, albeit facing a significant gap of 23 points behind league leaders PSV Eindhoven.
The midfielder, who had been training with Al Ettifaq in Abu Dhabi during a season break camp, is set to fly to Amsterdam to finalize the deal. His decision to leave the Middle East is attributed to challenges faced by his family in adapting to the new environment, with his wife possibly influencing the move.
Negotiations between Henderson’s representatives and Al Ettifaq resulted in the premature termination of his three-year contract, valued at £12 million ($15m), signed just last summer.
The Saudi Pro League side initially resisted Henderson’s desire to leave but eventually softened their stance, allowing him to pursue a permanent transfer to Ajax.
Also Read: Roberto Firmino linked with a shock return to Premier League with Chelsea
With Henderson’s imminent arrival, Ajax hopes to bolster their performance in the Eredivisie. The club underwent a managerial change in October, with Maurice Steijn’s dismissal after just 11 games in charge.
Under interim head coach John van ‘t Schip, Ajax has experienced a positive transformation, remaining unbeaten in the league with seven wins and two draws in nine matches, propelling them to fifth place.
Henderson, having struggled to make a significant impact at Al Ettifaq, will be eager to contribute from the onset as Ajax seeks to overcome their challenging campaign in the Eredivisie.