Ajax confirm 'serious talks' with Jordan Henderson as England international desperately seeks Al-Ettifaq transfer exit

Van 't Schip has revealed that the Dutch club have opened talks with the England international over a potential transfer. Reports have suggested that the midfielder is desperate to leave, having seen his initial transfer to the Middle East denigrated for a lack of ambition, and labelled a slap in the face to the LGBTQIA+ community, for which he has repeatedly claimed to be an ambassador.

Ajax's interim coach said, per ESPN: "There is serious talk going on with Henderson. He still has some things to arrange in Saudi Arabia.

"It could be a nice match. It's no secret that we could really use that type of player. Other guys can benefit from that."

Henderson only moved to Al-Ettifaq, to link up with former team-mate Steven Gerrard, in July, bringing an end to his 12-year stay at Liverpool. It remains to be seen if the Saudi club are willing to let him go; Ajax are keen to sign him for a small transfer fee, but are not interested in a loan move.

Ajax will hope to strike an agreement swiftly, with the January transfer window open only for the next two weeks. Al-Ettifaq don't play again until February 15.