Liverpool star on verge of £12m exit as ‘agreement in principle’ is reached with Saudi outfit
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Liverpool and Al Ettifaq have reached an agreement in principle for Jordan Henderson worth around £12million.
The Liverpool captain has spent the last 12 seasons at Anfield but is now expected to reunite with Steven Gerrard in Saudi Arabia.
With a highly-lucrative contract offer on the table from Al Ettifaq, personal terms didn’t seem to be much of an issue in striking a deal.
However, as Henderson is contracted with Liverpool until 2025, they were asking for a transfer fee from the Saudi club.
Romano has since clarified that the two clubs have agreed on a deal and the transfer is now expected to go through.
“Liverpool and Al Ettifaq just reached an agreement in principle on fee for Jordan Henderson — here we go!” Romano revealed on Twitter.
“Henderson already agreed three year deal last week, documents to be checked then time to sign and move to Saudi. Steven Gerrard, waiting for JH.
“Liverpool will receive £12m plus add ons fee for Jordan Henderson from Al Ettifaq as deal has been agreed. Steven Gerrard already spoke to Hendo and medical tests will be booked once documents are exchanged between all parties.”
The 33-year-old featured in 43 matches across all competitions last season, with 35 of those appearances coming in the Premier League.
While Henderson is no longer at the peak of his powers, his departure will leave a huge void in the Liverpool dressing room.
Along with Henderson, Fabinho could also depart for Saudi this summer as Al-Ittihad hope to land a £40m deal for the Brazilian international.
With Liverpool set to lose two crucial first-team players, they will need to dip back into the transfer market themselves.
They have already wrapped up deals for the likes of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, although they need to add some defensive protection.
According to Romano, Southampton’s Romeo Lavia remains at the top of their wishlist, although they are also considering Crystal Palace’s Cheick Doucoure.
“In any case, [Liverpool] will sign at least one more midfielder. Romeo Lavia is top of the list. They want Romeo Lavia. But I’m told that Chelsea are still there, so let’s see what’s going to happen,” Romano explained.
“Also, we know that if Arsenal sell Thomas Partey to a Saudi Arabian club, [Lavia] could be a possibility for Arsenal. Liverpool are considering multiple options for the defensive midfield position.”
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