Henderson close to leaving Saudi as ex-Liverpool man nears European giants

Robin Bairner

• 13 Jan 2024 14:49 CST
• 3 min read

Jordan Henderson’s departure from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq is “serious business”, according to reports in Italy, which indicate the former Liverpool midfielder is close to moving to Juventus.

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. The club’s sacking of Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has had a role to play.

Several clubs have expressed an interest in his services, with Ajax one of the teams who were pushing to sign him via a loan move. It appears that it will ultimately be Juventus who secure the services of the 33-year-old, with Henderson apparently very open to the move to Serie A.

Transfer specialist Alfredo Pedulla took to X to report: “Jordan Henderson to Juventus is serious business and not a difficult negotiation.

“Juventus are willing to accept the conditions of Al-Ettifaq: an 18-month loan deal with the possibility of termination in June.

“And they will pay €1.5m of the ex-Liverpool’s player’s monstrous salary, nothing of his price tag, and Al-Ettifaq will release him.

“There is the absolute approval of Juventus coach Max Allegri, who sees him as a first choice for the midfield.

“We’re at an advanced stage – Henderson wants Juventus!”

How much does Jordan Henderson earn?

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.

Henderson remains under contract at Al-Ettifaq until 2026, and the Saudi club will continue to pay the vast majority of his wage over the next 18 months, during which he looks destined to be playing for Juventus.