Sunderland stumbling block for Henderson return revealed as Ajax chance fades – sources
Sunderland will find it difficult to propose a realistic deal for Jordan Henderson due to his wages at Ajax, Mackem News understands.
Henderson, 34, has been linked with an emotional return to Wearside ahead of the January transfer window as he finds his chances at Ajax under Francesco Farioli dwindling [The Sun, 5 October].
First leaving for Liverpool in 2011 after 79 appearances for his boyhood club, Henderson went on to win the Premier League and Champions League at Anfield before a controversial move to Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq.
Lasting just a matter of months in Saudi Arabia, he struck a deal to join Ajax last January but his salary in Amsterdam will prove a considerable obstacle for a return this season, it is understood.
Sunderland linked with Jordan Henderson return
Sunderland fans have always been fond of the idea of bringing back former heroes, with Jermain Defoe’s return at the age of 39 in 2022 a memorable night – though the move itself went far from as intended the second time around.
Henderson is approaching the stage of his career when a move like this would typically take shape, depending on what other offers he has on the table and whether he would be ready for such a vast salary decrease.
As well as demolishing the club’s wage structure, the Black Cats would also have to weigh up the potential benefit of Henderson helping develop the likes of Dan Neil, Chris Rigg and Jobe Bellingham, to whether his presence would stunt the game time and therefore the progress of the coveted youngsters.
There is no denying that the sentimental aspect of a potential deal would raise the roof at the Stadium of Light – many who voiced their opposition to his decision to move to Saudi in 2023 are likely to welcome him with open arms if he agreed to return.
It is a tempting proposition, but one which would have to suit all parties – including Ajax themselves – and there are wrinkles aplenty to iron out first before anything could look likely.
In other Sunderland news, promotion-winning captain Corry Evans has a new club.
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