Henderson's hopes of Saudi Arabia exit dealt blow as eye-watering price tag set

07 January 2024 , 00:02

657     0

Jordan Henderson left Liverpool to join Al-Ettifaq in the summer (Image: Getty Images)

Jordan Henderson may want out of Al-Ettifaq, but the Saudi Pro League side have no intention of parting ways with the former Liverpool captain so soon.

The 33-year-old only traded Merseyside for the Middle East last summer, but less than six months after arriving Henderson already wants to return to the Premier League. The England international has struggled to adjust to both the lifestyle and climate, while he is also frustrated by the dismal attendances for league games every week.

Though that may be the case, Henderson's contract ties him to Al-Ettifaq until the summer of 2026, meaning the Saudi side are hardly in a position where they can be cornered into selling him on the cheap. In contrast, though, the club are only willing to let the midfielder leave if they receive a huge offer.

Those running the show at Al-Ettifaq are keen to make a profit on Henderson if he is to depart, while the player himself has not yet submitted any kind of transfer request. In fact, manager Steven Gerrard is keen on building the rest of his side around his former Liverpool team-mate.

Henderson may have hoped that playing under a fellow Anfield icon would have helped inspire some fine form, but things have not played out as expected. Al-Ettifaq currently sit eighth in the Saudi Pro League, a staggering 28 points adrift of league leaders Al-Hilal.

Chelsea complete record-breaking Enzo Fernandez transfer after deadline day rush

The club are without a win since late October, which has since sparked fresh speculation over the long-term future of Gerrard as manager. Were the ex-Liverpool star to be sacked, that will only accelerate Henderson's desire to head for the exit.

HAVE YOUR SAY!Where would Henderson go after Al-Ettifaq? Comment below

Jordan Henderson is eyeing a return to the Premier League (Getty Images)

Despite the Saudi league's heavy spending, Henderson is plying his trade in front of less than 1000 fans. It marks a steep decline from his days in front of the adoring Anfield faithful.

Though Henderson is currently on an astronomical weekly wage, the tax-free element only kicks in if he honours the first two years of his Al-Ettifaq contract. Returning to the Premier League so soon would leave him with quite the tax bill, £7million in fact.

For Henderson to want out of Saudi so soon may come as a surprise to fans, given how passionately the midfielder defended the transfer upon his arrival having been the subject of plenty of criticism.

Josh O'Brien