Jordan Henderson reportedly set to join Saudi Club in lucrative deal, unveiling Liverpool’s transfer demands
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson’s potential move to Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq has caused a stir, with reports emerging that the Reds’ asking price for the midfielder has been disclosed. The 33-year-old is said to have reached a verbal agreement on personal terms with Al Ettifaq, a team currently managed by former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.
Although Henderson still has two years remaining on his Anfield contract, sources suggest that he is prepared to depart ahead of the upcoming Premier League season, as reported by The Athletic. The publication claims that the England international has already committed to an astonishing three-year deal that would see his wages skyrocket to £700,000 per week, almost quadrupling his current earnings.
Despite no formal approach from Al Ettifaq yet, it is anticipated that they will make a move for Henderson in the near future. However, Liverpool officials have reportedly stated that they have no intention of allowing the midfielder to leave on the cheap.
So, what is Liverpool’s asking price for Henderson? The Athletic indicates that senior figures at Anfield have dismissed suggestions of granting a free transfer or accepting a fee as low as £10m, as was previously rumored by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Comparing the situation to Kalidou Koulibaly’s recent £20m transfer from Chelsea to Al Hilal, Liverpool is believed to view that figure as a reference point for negotiations with Al Ettifaq.
Interestingly, Henderson is not the only Liverpool player linked to a move to Saudi Arabia. Midfielder Fabinho has also attracted interest from the Saudi Pro League, with Al Ittihad reportedly preparing a £40m bid for the Brazilian, who still has three years remaining on his contract at Anfield.
While manager Jurgen Klopp may be hesitant to part ways with both players, especially after allowing James Milner, Roberto Firmino, Naby Keita, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to leave earlier this summer, the opportunity to generate over £60m in transfer funds could prove too tempting to reject as Liverpool continues its summer rebuild.