Jordan quits Al-Ettifaq for ‘my family’
Ajax new boy Jordan Henderson says leaving Al-Ettifaq was “best for me and my family”.
The 81-cap England midfield workhorse, 33, won the Champions League, Prem and FA Cup during 12 years at Liverpool.
But after lasting just six months in the Saudi Pro League he explained his exit on social media tonight.
Henderson posted: “I’m sad to say that I will be leaving Al Ettifaq with immediate effect.
“It wasn’t an easy decision but one that I feel is best for me and my family.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank the club & the fans for all the support during my time. I really felt the love from Day One.
“I’ll keep watching & hoping for your success. Good luck for the future.”
Ajax confirm Henderson signing
Ex-Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has signed for Ajax following the sudden termination of his Al-Ettifaq contract.
The England midfielder, 33, was desperate to quit the Saudi Pro League for Europe despite only leaving in the summer.
‘Tomiyasu & White in advanced contract talks’
Takehiro Tomiyasu and Ben White are reportedly in “advanced” talks over extending their Arsenal deals.
Japan full-back Tomiyasu, 25, is under contract until 2025 and versatile defender White, 26, is tied down until the following year.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano told GIVEMESPORT that extensions could soon be sealed.
Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth says “positive steps” have been made in negotiations between Tomiyasu and the Gunners.
And it’s also reckoned talks with White are a priority for Arsenal chiefs.
It’s snow joke for Varane
EXCLUSIVE: Raphael Varane is on a slippery slope with Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag after photographing himself at a ski resort, writes NEIL CUSTIS.
The French World Cup winner, 30, today posted an Instagram picture of himself enjoying his free time – given to all United players this week – at the unknown snow-covered destination.
It is understood United forbid players to go skiing during the season due to the risk of injury.
While the picture itself only shows the defender standing there, with slopes and skiers in the background, he is sure to be quizzed upon his return to Old Trafford.
Manager Ten Hag will be piste off if he learns the injury prone centre-back was reckless in taking part in any skiing.
The winter activity is banned by the majority of clubs across Europe, fearful of major injuries to stars.
Bayern Munich keeper Manuel Neuer broke his leg in freak accident during the Bundesliga winter break in 2022, after returning from Germany’s disastrous World Cup campaign in Qatar. Neuer was out for 10 months in total.
‘Whole package’ Olise rated ideal for Liverpool
Michael Olise could be perfect for Liverpool – amid reported interest from Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham.
So says former Anfield midfielder Jan Molby of Crytal Palace’s French winger.
Olise has reportedly suggested he’d prefer a move to the Gunners.
The 22-year-old’s £60million release clause might be a major obstacle for many clubs.
However, ex-Holland star Molby told GOAL: “He looks a terrific player.
“You look at players and ask, ‘How far can he go?’ It looks to me like he has got the whole package.
“He could be within what Liverpool are prepared to pay in terms of a transfer fee.”
‘It’s obvious I want to play for top club’ – Toney
Arsenal and Chelsea target Ivan Toney says “it’s obvious want to play for a top club”.
The Brentford striker is free to play after his eight-month ban.
The one-cap Englishman, 27, told Sky Sports: “It’s obvious I want to play for a top club and fight for titles, yes.
“If a club was to pay the right money… then, who knows. January or whenever is right time, I’ll be ready.”
But having been out for so long, Toney added: “I want to enjoy and play now.”