In a surprising turn of events, Jordan Henderson has reportedly accepted an offer from Saudi Arabian club Al Ettifaq, with the support of Liverpool and manager Jurgen Klopp.
Although Henderson still has two years remaining on his current contract, negotiations will now focus on determining an appropriate transfer fee between Liverpool and Al Ettifaq.
Liverpool’s interest in restructuring the squad has led to their pursuit of Romeo Lavia as a potential replacement for Henderson.
The club is seeking a dynamic defensive midfielder to contribute to their attacking play.
Henderson: A legend at Anfield
Jordan Henderson’s achievements at Liverpool are unparalleled. He captained the team to numerous trophies, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, Super Cup, and Club World Cup.
Since joining the club from Sunderland in 2011, Henderson has made 492 appearances and has become an integral part of Liverpool’s success.
However, the opportunity to reunite with Steven Gerrard and explore a new challenge in the Middle East has enticed the player to consider this move.
Jordan Henderson ready to leave Liverpool
The transfer fee for Henderson is yet to be determined, but reports suggest that Liverpool would seek a fee in the region of £20 million due to his contractual obligations, status as club captain, international recognition, and a reference from Mahrez’s valuation. Paul Joyce wrote in the Times that,
“Liverpool would seek a fee in the region of £20 million should the player look to move on.”
The negotiations between the two clubs will shed light on the final agreement. Jordan Henderson has accepted a verbal agreement to join Steven Gerrard’s team in the Middle East, with a reported offer of £700,000 per week for three years.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are also contemplating the potential departure of Thiago Alcantara, who has attracted strong interest from Saudi Arabia as well.
Concerns from the LGBT+ community
Liverpool’s official LGBT+ fans’ group, Kop Outs, has expressed concern regarding Henderson’s potential move to Saudi Arabia. They cited the country’s oppressive stance on women’s and LGBTQ+ rights.
However, Henderson has been a vocal advocate for inclusivity and equality during his time at Liverpool. He received recognition for his support of the LGBTQ+ community.
The fans’ group hopes that Henderson will remain true to the values he has embodied thus far.
As this fast-developing story unfolds, Liverpool finds itself at a crossroads, balancing the opportunity for squad reconstruction with the potential departure of a beloved captain.
The club’s decision-making will shape their future on and off the field, while Henderson contemplates a new chapter in his career.
Passionate about the beautiful game and dedicated to Liverpool FC, where “You’ll Never Walk Alone” is not just a slogan, but a way of life. I live and breathe football, from the roar of the Anfield crowd to the tactical intricacies of the sport.
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