Six clubs Jordan Henderson could join with midfielder ‘desperate’ for Premier League return

Former Liverpool star Jordan Henderson is reportedly desperate to return to the Premier League as his move to Saudi Arabia has not turned out the way he expected. 

Al-Ettifaq are struggling in the Saudi Pro League, with manager Steven Gerrard under pressure to revive the club’s fortunes. 

Henderson has made 19 senior appearances since joining the Dammam-based outfit for £12 million in July.

However, the 33-year-old has struggled to settle in the Middle East and is ‘desperate’ to return to English football (as per Daily Mail).  

We look at some of the clubs he could join in the January transfer window. 

Liverpool

Henderson enjoyed an impressive career at Liverpool, winning every major trophy including the Premier League, Champions League and the FA Cup.

During his 12 years in Merseyside, he scored 33 goals in 492 senior appearances. 

Liverpool are well-stocked in midfield following the summer arrivals of Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Watarun Endo.

Jurgen Klopp could opt to bring in Henderson to help them win the league title. 

Chelsea 

Chelsea splashed enormous fees to sign midfielders Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia.

However, the Blues could choose to bring in an experienced player in the middle. 

Henderson is certainly not the player he once was but Chelsea could benefit from his huge experience in the Premier League.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side have recently hit a good run of form after a disappointing start to the season.. 

Newcastle United

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) took over Newcastle United in 2021. The club have made progress since the Saudi takeover, but things have stalled this season.

The Magpies are looking for reinforcements in midfield, with Kalvin Phillips reportedly one of their main targets.

But they could choose to sign Henderson who will not cost a fortune. PIF could use their connections with the Saudi Pro League to ease negotiations for a transfer. 

Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton have enjoyed an impressive league campaign overall and are on course for another Europa League finish.

However, the Seagulls will likely add a few players this month, and Henderson looks like a good option given they don’t pay big transfer fees on new recruits.  

His former Liverpool teammates Adam Lallana and James Milner are also playing for Brighton, and they could convince the 33-year-old to move to the Amex Stadium. 

Celtic 

Henderson has previously worked with Brendan Rodgers during the Northern Irishman’s time at Liverpool.

A reunion with his former boss at Celtic could be an attractive option for the midfielder who wants a move away from Saudi Arabia. 

However, his priority will be a Premier League club, and only failing to land a move to a top-flight club could convince him to join the Scottish Premiership. 

Sunderland  

Henderson began his football career at Sunderland before landing a move to Liverpool in 2011.

However, the Black Cats were an established Premier League club when the midfielder was coming through the club’s academy.  

The England international could be tempted to make an emotional return to the Stadium of Light, but is unlikely to want to play in the Championship.