Ajax is showing keen interest in acquiring Jordan Henderson if the former Liverpool captain receives approval to leave the Saudi Pro League.
Reports emerged earlier this week indicating Henderson's desire to exit Al-Ettifaq merely six months after his contentious move to the Middle East.
The England International allegedly feels unsettled in Saudi Arabia, expressing dissatisfaction with the intense heat and humidity during matches. He is reportedly open to considering offers from Premier League teams.
It remains uncertain if any English top-flight clubs are interested. While there have been tentative links to Newcastle, a move to the club seems highly improbable considering Henderson's strong ties to his childhood club, Sunderland.
There are, however, several clubs around Europe that could offer the 33-year-old an escape route, with Fabrizio Romano claiming that Dutch giants Ajax are among those ready to make their move.
A loan deal would be an option, but the player’s enormous wages – around £8m-a-year – could also derail any short-term transfer.
There have been suggestions that Henderson could return to England with a club like Chelsea, but he has also drawn interest from Europe.
Connections with Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen – overseen by another former Liverpool midfielder, predating Henderson, namely Xabi Alonso – have been played down.
After failing to qualify for the Champions League last season, Ajax had a shaky start to the current campaign as well.
However, they have since risen to fifth in the Eredivisie table, which is closer to their usual position but still falls short of their expected competitive level.
Some stability in Amsterdam would be beneficial, leading them to focus on securing a transfer for a reliable performer like Henderson.
Ajax and other potential suitors must wait for Al-Ettifaq’s final decision regarding the former Sunderland star, as they retain his contract until 2026.
Should he be allowed to depart, Henderson will be aiming to find his footing once again in European football, preparing for the next challenge in his career.
He has made 19 appearances for Al-Ettifaq, providing five assists. Despite Gerrard’s team technically occupying the top half, they are closer in points to the relegation zone than the AFC Champions League spots.