Al-Ettifaq shows ‘no interest in doing business’ with Jordan Henderson, potentially preventing his return from Saudi Arabia

Introduction to this article
Jordan Henderson’s potential move back to Europe appears to have fallen through as Al-Ettifaq have expressed no interest in letting the midfielder go in January. The former Liverpool star was open to a loan deal and had attracted interest from clubs such as Ajax and Juventus, but it looks like he will be staying put in Saudi Arabia for the time being.

Al-Ettifaq adamant Henderson will stay

Despite Henderson’s desire to return to Europe on loan, Al-Ettifaq officials have made it clear that they have no intention of doing business during the January transfer window. The club is reportedly set to hold talks with the midfielder to address the transfer rumors and reassure him of their commitment to keeping him at the club.

Settling in struggles and European interest

Having struggled to settle down with his family in Saudi Arabia, Henderson has been eager to join a European club that showed interest in him. His aim has been to earn a place on Gareth Southgate’s squad for Euro 2024 this summer. Despite this, he has made 19 appearances for Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League, with the team currently sitting eighth in the table.

Interest from Ajax and Juventus

Ajax and Juventus were both reportedly interested in signing Henderson, with Ajax’s caretaker boss confirming talks with the midfielder. Meanwhile, Juventus, who have been eyeing up Kalvin Phillips, saw Henderson as a perfect fit for their midfield. However, it seems that Henderson will not be making a move to either club and will instead continue to compete for a spot on the England squad with his current Saudi side.