Liverpool’s Jordan Henderson is set to move to Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, with both clubs reportedly reaching an agreement for the transfer. Fabrizio Romano claims that Al-Ettifaq secured Henderson’s permission to negotiate the move from Anfield.
Henderson swiftly agreed to Al-Ettifaq’s contract offer, which is an astonishing three-year deal worth £700,000 per week.
The 33-year-old’s decision to accept the move may be influenced not only by the financial aspects but also by the potential decline in his first-team prospects at Liverpool towards the end of last season.
Alexis Mac Allister’s arrival from Brighton & Hove Albion during the summer may have influenced Henderson’s decision to consider leaving his 12-year successful association with Liverpool.
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Despite being invited by his former teammate Steven Gerrard to join him in Saudi Arabia, Henderson’s departure was not certain, especially after travelling to Germany with the rest of the Liverpool squad recently.
In contrast, Fabinho chose not to join the flight to Germany due to concrete interest from another Saudi Pro League club, Al-Ittihad. They made a £40 million offer for the Brazilian’s services last week.
Henderson’s omission from Jurgen Klopp’s squad to face Karlsruher in a friendly match hinted at potential developments behind the scenes.
Liverpool and Al-Ettifaq had disagreements over the valuation of the veteran player, but Henderson’s consent seems to have accelerated the transfer, allowing Steven Gerrard to secure the signing of the Reds captain.
Klopp was likely aware of the situation, as Liverpool have been monitoring Crystal Palace’s Cheick Doucoure.
However, Doucoure’s playing style differs significantly from Henderson’s, as he is more of a box-to-box midfielder, while Henderson is not known for his pace and running abilities.
Southampton’s Romeo Lavia could be a more suitable profile, but negotiating with Southampton may prove challenging, especially after their relegation from the Premier League.
