Klopp rocked as second source confirms Liverpool star could leave in exit that’ll leave huge hole at Anfield
Liverpool stars Jordan Henderson and Alisson Becker exchange words during a Premier League clash against Chelsea
A second source has confirmed Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson is attracting transfer interest, with the latest update suggesting an exit is being considered.
Henderson, 33, is the longest-serving player on Liverpool’s books and is one of very few who pre-date Jurgen Klopp’s arrival. Excluding homegrown stars such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Joe Gomez is the only other signed by a manager other than Klopp.
The Reds skipper has led by example since succeeding Steven Gerrard as captain back in 2015. However, multiple reports now state Gerrard could prise Henderson out of Anfield.
Indeed, the Daily Mail led the way, claiming Saudi Arabian side Al Ettifaq are sizing Henderson up. Gerrard was recently named Al Eiitfaq’s manager and Henderson is among several Premier League stars he’s courting.
The Mail claimed Henderson might be willing to leave given he did not start as regularly as he’s accustomed to last season. What’s more, with Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai arriving and a third midfielder wanted, Henderson’s game-time will only decrease from here on out.
Now, a second source have added more weight to the Henderson to Saudi claims. French outlet L’Equipe declare the central midfielder to be on Al Ettifaq’s radar. What’s more, they seem to suggest an exit is being considered.
Indeed, the publication state ‘the Englishman’s answer has not yet been revealed’. If it was a flat no, logic would dictate his rejection would have already come to light.
Henderson has two more years to run on his Liverpool contract. As such, the idea of recouping a fee for a 33-year-old who is no longer a guaranteed starter could appeal to Liverpool.
Double Henderson, Milner exits would leave leadership void
However, the Reds have already lost one of the biggest leaders this summer upon seeing James Milner join Brighton as a free agent.
He and Henderson were known to be among the most influential voices in the Liverpool dressing room. Losing both at the same time would leave a huge hole at Anfield from a leadership and experience perspective.
One factor that could swap Henderson towards staying is his England ambitions.
Despite the emergence of Jude Bellingham, Henderson remains a trusted lieutenant for Gareth Southgate.
With Euro 2024 a year away, the tournament likely represents Henderson’s last chance of lifting silverware with his country.
Moving to lesser leagues like Saudi Arabia often comes with a stigma attached when international managers select their squads. The far inferior level of competition is likely to see players overlooked when it comes time for their managers to make the final cut.
In any case, it remains unclear whether Henderson will leave Liverpool if Al Ettifaq act on their interest. But what is clear is the interest is definitely there.
