Henderson was not Ajax's first choice as failed move for star comes to light

25 January 2024 , 15:42

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Jordan Henderson signed for Ajax last week (Image: Getty Images)

Ajax attempted to sign Aston Villa star Leander Dendoncker BEFORE moving for Jordan Henderson.

The former Liverpool captain completed a surprise move to Amsterdam last week. He signed for free after having the remainder of his Al-Ettifaq contract cancelled after just six months.

Henderson has put pen to paper on a two-and-half year contract with the Dutch giants. While he is now back in Europe, Ajax actually had a different priority instead of Henderson.

According to VoetbalPrimeur, they were actually interested in Aston Villa midfielder Leander Dendoncker instead. The Belgian is available for transfer this January after making just 15 appearances - five of which being starts - for Unai Emery’s side this term.

Ajax even went as far as submitting an enquiry regarding the former Wolves man’s availability. But move was tricky due to ‘financial’ factors, leading to a move for Henderson instead.

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Speaking after completing his move, Henderson said: “I’m not sure, it’s been a bit of a whirlwind, a crazy few days, but I’m just so excited now to be here. Start a new chapter, a new journey in my life and my career.

“I’m just so excited to be here and be part of this club. Ajax as a football club speaks for itself. World class players that have played here for many, many years.

Leander Dendoncker was Ajax's first choice (Getty Images)

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“Once I knew there was an opportunity, I was over-excited and really just overwhelmed that this opportunity was there for me. It was something that I wanted to try and make happen. It’s very humbling for me to be here now, I’m just trying to take it all in really. A special, special day.”

While Dendoncker missed out on a switch to Ajax, he could still be on the move before the end of the January window. Villa boss Emery has confirmed that he was “close to leaving” Villa Park ahead of Thursday’s deadline.

Serie A side Napoli have expressed an interest in signing him on loan until the end of the season. His contract with the Midlands side expires in the summer of 2026.

Henderson is still waiting to make his debut for Ajax. He was not included in the squad that beat Waalwijk 4-1 last weekend. They are back in Eredivisie action this weekend against struggling Heracles.

Ajax’s rotten start to the season leaves them 21 points off the pace in the race for the title but they could put themselves in the conversation for a European spot with another victory.

Daniel Orme