TBR Football can exclusively reveal that Jordan Henderson’s fairytale return to Sunderland is now off the table.
Jordan Henderson’s current contract with Ajax has come to an end, and the player is now a free agent, with links to a move to his boyhood club.
It was previously reported by TBR Football that Henderson could be on his way to the Stadium of Light if he is to leave Ajax.
And while Sunderland were keeping a close eye on the situation, the move now appears to be off.
Jordan Henderson applauding the Ajax fans after game vs FC Twente
Photo by Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images
Sunderland no longer looking to sign Jordan Henderson
TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey understands that Sunderland did hold talks with Henderson regarding a potential move.
The Black Cats considered making a move for him, as the experience could have been useful for their return to the Premier League.
However, TBR Football understands that Sunderland have moved on from the idea after signing Habib Diarra from RC Strasbourg.
With Sunderland now no longer an option, Henderson will be looking elsewhere, with several other clubs interested, as previously reported.
Among the sides keen on signing the former Liverpool captain is Cesc Fabregas’ Serie A side Como.
Jordan Henderson’s rise from Sunderland academy to Liverpool captain
Henderson came through the academy ranks at Sunderland, quickly making a name for himself in the Premier League.
He made his debut for the club in 2008 under Roy Keane and soon cemented a regular place in the first team during the 2009–10 campaign.
His tireless work rate and natural leadership qualities stood out in a side often battling near the bottom of the table.
Club Games Goals Assists
Liverpool 492 33 58
Sunderland 79 5 10
Ajax 57 1 9
Total 628 39 77
It wasn’t long before his performances caught the eye of bigger clubs, and in 2011, Liverpool signed him in a £20 million deal.
Henderson initially struggled at the club with Brendan Rodgers even considering selling him at one point. But his resilience, professionalism, and commitment to self-improvement gradually saw him emerge as a central figure in the squad.
Not only did he end up staying at Liverpool, but forced his way into the team and was eventually named the club captain following Gerrard’s departure.
Under Klopp, Henderson led Liverpool to their first League title in 30 years and their sixth Champions League title.
By the time he left Anfield in 2023 to take on a new challenge in Saudi Arabia, Henderson had made over 490 appearances for the club, won every major trophy available.