Ajax close to beating Juventus to Jordan Henderson signing

Carlo Garganese

• 14 Jan 2024 16:45 GMT
• 3 min read

Ajax are close to completing a deal to sign former Liverpool star Jordan Henderson, according to the Dutch media.

It has been clear for several days now that Henderson will leave Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq just six months after a highly-publicised transfer from Liverpool last summer.

Voetbal report that Ajax are in relatively advanced negotiations for Henderson, with the player making a big sacrifice in order to complete the move.

The transfer will be a permanent deal, and not a loan, with Henderson signing for 18 months at Ajax.

According to Voetbal, a deal is getting close, with Ajax set to beat Juventus to the England international.

Voetbal’s report was supported by Ajax themselves.

What did Van’ t Schip say?

Ajax manager John van ‘t Schip confirmed on Sunday ahead of their Eredivisie game against Go Ahead Eagles that negotiations with Henderson were advanced.

“There is serious talk going on with Henderson,” Van ‘t Schip said via ESPN. “He still has some things to arrange in Saudi Arabia.”

Henderson completed a controversial €15 million move to the Middle East in the summer but he has struggled to adjust to the new culture and is seeking a move back to Europe.

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard is understood to be at risk of the sack as manager of Al-Ettifaq and that has also played a role in his decision to leave.

Henderson earns around €400,000 (£350,000) per week at Al-Ettifaq, which equates to nearly €21m per year.

During his time at Liverpool, it was estimated that he was earning around €6m per year, and his move to the Saudi Pro League led to accusations that he was willing to sell his morals for such a huge figure.

He will take a big paycut at Ajax.