Jordan Henderson close to Ajax move as Al Ettifaq agree to terminate contract with Saudi Arabian club - reports

Jordan Henderson is reportedly closing in on a move to Ajax, having agreed to terminate his contract at Al Ettifaq.

The England midfielder joined the Saudi Pro League club, managed by Steven Gerrard, from Liverpool last summer, but it has been claimed that he has struggled to settle.

He was understood to be earning £700,000 a week and has made 17 appearances during his brief time there.

According to a number of reports, including The Athletic, Henderson has flown back to the UK while he tries to secure a permanent move to the Dutch giants.

The 33-year-old was criticised for his move to Saudi Arabia, having been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights but then moving to a country where same-sex relationships are illegal.

England manager Gareth Southgate stuck up for Henderson when he was booed by some fans during a friendly win over Australia in October.

“I really don’t understand it,” said Southgate.

“He’s a player who has won 79 caps for England and his commitment and what he has delivered for England is exceptional.

"His role in the group on and off the pitch is phenomenally important – he’s the one that has taken the likes of Jude Bellingham under his wing since he came into the squad.

"He’s a brilliant role model for all of the group in his professionalism and his approach. Some people deciding to boo I really don’t understand what that is for."

Ajax have recovered from a bad start to the season since bringing in John van 't Schip as manager.

The Dutch giants now find themselves fifth in the Eredivisie, having struggled around the relegation zone earlier in the campaign.

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