Jordan Henderson Prepares for Crucial Discussions with Al Ettifaq Regarding a Potential January departure.

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The midfielder, who made the move from Liverpool to Al Ettifaq this summer, is experiencing challenges in adapting to Saudi Arabia.

Concerns about his role with England in the upcoming European Championships have arisen, despite prior assurances from Gareth Southgate.

While Henderson hasn’t directly communicated his feelings to Ettifaq, it’s anticipated that the 33-year-old will express his concerns in an upcoming meeting at their Abu Dhabi training camp.

Manager Steven Gerrard and sporting director Mark Allen will lead the discussion, giving Henderson the chance to address the club face-to-face.

While no formal offers have been received, sources indicate growing interest from the Premier League, Bundesliga, and Eredivisie side Ajax in Henderson’s services.

However, Ettifaq is firm in their stance and won’t be easily swayed into selling. Henderson, a key signing in the summer alongside Wijnaldum, Dembele, Gray, and Hendry, faces a challenging situation as Gerrard’s side has been winless since October.

Ettifaq has no intention of parting ways with Henderson in January, and any potential permanent departure would require an offer that ensures a profit for the Saudi side.

Unlike some of their counterparts backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, Ettifaq, still owned by the Ministry of Sport, lacks substantial financial resources.

Contrary to reports, Henderson’s transfer fee is said to be £4m, not the widely circulated £12m. Ettifaq has not only invested in his transfer but also in wages, relocation costs, and a Liverpool-secured sell-on clause, necessitating a close-to-£20m deal for a significant profit.

In the event of a loan, Ettifaq would demand full payment of Henderson’s wages, even if he agrees to a salary reduction, and a loan fee would also be required.

Ettifaq has strategically built its current squad around Henderson and will only consider letting the English international leave if it proves financially advantageous, allowing for an immediate replacement to be signed this month.

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