“England Star Henderson FREE to Leave Ajax, Could Sunderland Nab him as Bellingham’s Replacement?
Jordan Henderson Eyes Emotional Return to Sunderland After Ajax Exit
Jordan Henderson could be on the verge of a sensational return to Sunderland, his boyhood club, after being told by new Ajax head coach John Heitinga that he is not part of the club’s future plans.
What’s the Situation?
According to the Daily Mirror, Ajax have informed the veteran midfielder that he is free to leave this summer, with the club eager to shed his £100,000-a-week wages.
The 34-year-old England international does not feature in Heitinga’s plans moving forward.
A move back to the Stadium of Light may now be on the table. Fresh off their promotion to the Premier League, Sunderland are reportedly interested in bringing Henderson back as a potential replacement for Jobe Bellingham, whose future remains uncertain.
Context and Implications
Ajax’s desire to offload Henderson comes as they look to cut costs following an influx of bonus payouts tied to their qualification for next season’s Champions League.
Sunderland, who previously expressed interest in Henderson back in December 2024, may now seize the opportunity. The transfer would mark both a Premier League return and a homecoming for the former Liverpool captain.
On the international front, England boss Thomas Tuchel is said to have reassured Henderson that he remains in the national team’s plans for the 2026 World Cup, as long as he stays fit and performs consistently.
He recently featured in England’s narrow 1-0 win over Andorra, showing he’s still in the mix for selection.
Bellingham’s Uncertain Future
Henderson’s potential arrival could also cushion the blow of losing Jobe Bellingham, who has attracted serious interest from abroad.
Borussia Dortmund reportedly had a €25 million (£21m) bid rejected, but the young midfielder is still expected to move on this summer despite Sunderland president Kyril Louis-Dreyfus’s efforts to keep him.
Bringing in a high-profile, experienced player like Henderson could not only fill that midfield gap but also help the club stay afloat in their Premier League return.
What’s Next for Henderson?
Henderson’s immediate focus will be on international duty. He’s set to feature again for England in a friendly clash against Senegal on Tuesday, June 10.
His performance there could further influence his transfer prospects—and his chances of staying in contention for England’s 2026 World Cup squad.
