Ajax explored a surprise move to re-sign Jordan Henderson from Brentford during the January transfer window, with the Dutch club going as far as seriously discussing a return that has since been described as “bizarre”.
Ajax’s internal search for midfield experience led them to reconsider a player they had only moved on months earlier, underlining the scale of the problems they have faced in the centre of the pitch.
Ajax revisit Henderson option amid midfield concerns
Dutch outlet Voetbal International, via Soccer News, revealed that Ajax asked about Henderson’s availability after struggling to replace the leadership and balance lost following his summer departure.
Henderson had left Amsterdam to join Brentford after becoming a lightning rod for criticism at Ajax, largely due to his substantial wage package. His exit formed part of a broader cost-cutting drive at the club, with Ajax eager to reset both financially and structurally.
However, the plan backfired on the pitch. Since Henderson’s departure, Ajax have lacked a recognised holding midfielder and have been actively searching for an experienced number six to fill what has been described internally as a “significant void”.
Brentford situation sparked renewed interest
The possibility of a return emerged after Henderson lost his guaranteed starting place at Brentford under head coach Keith Andrews. While the England international featured regularly early in the season, he has found himself rotated more often as the Bees have exceeded expectations.
Ajax viewed that situation as an opening. Despite the optics, the club explored whether a short-term solution could be found by bringing Henderson back to Amsterdam, even though his previous exit had been driven by financial necessity.
‘They considered everything’
“Ajax has really cast a lot of lines. They even considered casting a line for Jordan Henderson. They even considered bringing him back,” — Lentin Goodijk, Voetbal InternationalGoodijk added that the club’s willingness to revisit such an option highlighted how difficult the window had become.
“At one point, he lost his starting spot at Brentford. They really considered everything, which is very painful,” — Lentin Goodijk
Ultimately, no move materialised and Henderson remained at Brentford as the window closed.
Key Insights
- Ajax explored a shock January return for Jordan Henderson
- The midfielder left Ajax only last summer due to wage concerns
- Ajax have struggled without a natural holding midfielder
- Henderson’s reduced role at Brentford prompted interest
- The idea was seriously discussed but never progressed
What’s Next
Ajax are expected to revisit their midfield rebuild in the summer, when budget constraints and squad planning may allow for a more coherent solution. Henderson, meanwhile, remains part of Brentford’s plans as they continue their impressive season, with his experience still viewed as valuable despite increased rotation.
Was Ajax right to consider a Henderson return in January, or does it underline deeper issues in their squad planning?
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