Arsenal now ‘offered’ former Liverpool player, he’ll hold ‘exit talks’ this week

Add as preferred source on Google

Former Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson is eager to return to the Premier League, with Arsenal a potential destination. 

Arsenal are keen to bolster their midfield contingent, and have been linked with a number of potential acquisitions in that part of the pitch. 

Everton ace Amadou Onana is said to be open to a January switch to the Emirates Stadium. Meanwhile, Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz has been dubbed Mikel Arteta’s “dream”signing.

However, the fact that the Gunners have such a limited transfer budget at their disposal this winter could prevent them from bringing in any midfielders at all.

That being said, Jordan Henderson is currently doing all he can to make himself an affordable prospect for Premier League clubs. As reported by HITC, the 33-year-old is set to “hold talks” to try to “negotiate an exit” from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq. The England star has also “offered” his services to Arsenal and his former employers Liverpool, amongst other clubs.

Prior to joining Al-Ettifaq in the most recent summer transfer window, Henderson spent twelve seasons on the books at Anfield, and wore the captain’s armband for much of that time. In his time with the Reds, Henderson won one Premier League title, one FA Cup, and secured one Champions League crown, amongst other honours.

However, towards the end of his time on Merseyside, he saw his game time restricted somewhat as he slipped down the pecking order.

Should Arsenal sign Jordan Henderson?

In truth, Henderson is not the player he once was. He is still a good passer of the ball, and a natural leader whose experience could prove useful in a dressing room, but he no longer belongs at a club competing for the highest honours in the game.

Henderson may well be keen to return to the Premier League in order to consolidate his place in Gareth Southgate’s England plans ahead of EURO 2024, but Arteta should not be tempted to offer the veteran that chance. Arsenal have enough ageing midfielders on their books as it is, with Thomas Partey, Jorginho, and Mohamed Elneny all currently at the club.

Arsenal do need to invest in their midfield, but must do so with the long-term future of the club in mind. Signing Henderson now, even if he becomes available for a cut price deal, would not raise the level of the squad and would surely be considered something of a panic buy. The Gunners must let the offer of his services pass them by.