Jordan Henderson ponders over a decision to end his 12-year stay with Liverpool and take up a lucrative Saudi Arabian contract.
According to The Telegraph, Saudi Arabia’s interest in Jordan Henderson could force the experienced midfielder to ponder over a Liverpool exit. The 33-year-old will have a decision to make over ending his 12-year stint at Merseyside in return for the riches of the Middle Eastern league.
Jordan Henderson could join the exodus of Premier League stars headed for Saudi Arabia. The Middle Eastern league have ramped up their efforts as they continue to target some top draw names. Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante are only a few big names in the league, as they continue to grow in stature.
The Saudis have now targetting Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson to become part of their league. The major interest reportedly comes from Al Ettifaq, who recently appointed Reds legend Steven Gerrard as their manager.
The Liverpool great is thought to be the driving force behind the interest in Henderson. The 33-year-old stalwart has to decide whether to end his 12-year stint at Merseyside for the Saudi riches or continue in an unspecified role under Jurgen Klopp.
Since the transfer window opened, Liverpool have aggressively moved to reshape their midfield. Klopp has invested significant sums in revamping the positions with Alexis Mac Allister was joined by RB Leipzig’s Dominik Szoboszlai. The pair cost around £95 million, excluding the bonuses in the deal for the Argentine.
Klopp also holds an interest in Romeo Lavia, but their interest cooled off following Southampton’s £50 million asking price. They could still come to the table and negotiate a move, but Liverpool may have to offload a few players before that.
Midfielder Thiago Alcantara remains linked with Galatasaray and the Saudis, but there’s no decision made on the Spaniard. Meanwhile, amid the growing interest in Henderson, Klopp could potentially look at a completely new look midfield.
The question remains whether the German manager is open to losing many of his experienced players in the same window. James Milner also left and joined Brighton on a free transfer. If Thiago and Henderson also depart, the team will have a shortage of experienced players in a crucial squad area.
Henderson has two years left on his deal, and Liverpool might consider a departure if the Saudis are to offer a significant fee. In the end, the 33-year-old will have to take the final call on what he wants with his career, as at 33, he may not have a regular spot in this team for the coming season and beyond.
