Liverpool star ‘wooed’ by ‘eye-watering’ Saudi chance as Gerrard reunion creates a ‘dilemma’
Jordan Henderson is reportedly ‘considering’ leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq.
The Saudi side are now managed by Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, who accepted the job earlier this month.
There are no household names currently in Gerrard’s squad. In fact, Sweden forward Robin Quaison is the only recognisable name and there is no particular reason why he is familiar.
The former Rangers and Aston Villa boss is hoping to change that and has identified Reds captain Henderson as one of his top targets.
When this rumour surfaced, it felt unrealistic, yet The Telegraph now says the England midfielder is ‘considering’ the move to Saudi Arabia.
Henderson has two choices: ‘stay at Anfield or move for an eye-watering pay day’ after ‘being wooed’ by Gerrard’s side.
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The 33-year-old is ‘wrestling with the dilemma’ amidst the ‘Premier League exodus to Saudi Arabia’, the report states.
Having spent 12 years at Anfield, this is obviously not a decision Henderson will take lightly, especially as it could hinder his chances of going to Euro 2024 with England.
Al-Ettifaq have not made sent Liverpool an official offer to sign their captain, though it is said the Saudi club and Henderson’s former captain Gerrard are ‘leading the overtures’.
Obviously, the Reds skipper will be offered a very ‘lucrative’ contract and at the age of 33, could be very tempted by the long-term financial security.
It is noted that a bid from the Saudi club will only be lodged if the player gives the ‘green light’ to approach Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Klopp’s stance is unclear at this moment in time. Having recently lost James Milner, he might decline an offer for his captain due to his experience.
Henderson has two years left on his contract at Anfield and Thiago, whose deal expires in 2024, has also attracted interest from the middle east.
Should Henderson depart, Liverpool will likely push to sign Romeo Lavia from Southampton.
Klopp is unlikely to sign the Belgian teenager unless one of his current midfielders leaves.
As Trent Alexander-Arnold has slotted into an inverted full-back role and now operates as an extra midfielder when Liverpool are in possession, the German manager is well-stocked in that department.
He needs to offload at least one player if a move to Lavia is going to materialise. The 19-year-old’s £50million asking price is offputting as is and it is very difficult to justify paying that fee without offloading Henderson or Thiago.
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