Earlier this month, 90min reported that Jordan Henderson is feeling unsettled in Saudi Arabia and might express his desire to leave Ettifaq when meeting with club officials, including manager Steven Gerrard, this week.
With Premier League interest and admiration from Eredivisie side Ajax, Juventus has now entered the race for Henderson’s signature.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport and later confirmed by Sky in Italy, Juventus has initiated contact with Henderson, expressing interest in a potential loan deal, a move already approved by manager Massimiliano Allegri.
The report outlines Henderson’s preference for an 18-month loan contract, a condition that may pose challenges for Juventus. The club is considering other midfield targets like Udinese’s Lazar Samardzic and Atalanta’s Ederson.
Sources close to the situation suggest that a loan exit for Henderson is more probable than a permanent sale in this transfer window. However, Ettifaq is determined to safeguard their financial interests in any potential departure.
In the event of a loan move, suitors would be required to cover Henderson’s wages entirely. Even if the 33-year-old agrees to a salary reduction for a return to Europe, Ettifaq would insist on full wage payments. Additionally, a loan fee would be demanded to assist Ettifaq in reinforcing their squad.
For any club considering a permanent signing of Henderson, Ettifaq’s conditions include offering the opportunity for the club to turn a profit. After factoring in all costs, such as the transfer fee, wages, and relocation expenses, a fee in the vicinity of £20 million would be necessary.
While Ettifaq explores potential replacements for Henderson, including Saudi international Abdulelah Al-Malki and Al Nassr’s Seko Fofana, retaining the former Liverpool captain remains their primary focus.
The club is determined to navigate the transfer situation with careful consideration to both financial stability and squad reinforcement.
