Chelsea are working on a surprise move for Jordan Henderson and are leading the queue of Premier League clubs interested in signing the 36-year-old midfielder. Henderson has an agreement that allows him to leave Brentford on a free transfer, even though he has one year remaining on his contract.
The midfielder is currently injured after breaking his arm during England's celebrations following their last-16 win against Mexico at the World Cup. He stayed in North America for the rest of the tournament, remaining a key figure in the dressing room.
Alonso Values Leadership and Experience
Xabi Alonso wants to bring Henderson to Stamford Bridge because of his leadership and experience. According to The Athletic, Chelsea are the leading contenders for the former Liverpool captain's signature. Multiple other Premier League clubs also want to sign him.
Chelsea's interest follows their opening of talks with Brighton to sign 35-year-old Danny Welbeck, further evidence of a change in transfer policy since Alonso was appointed. Last month, the Blues bid £8m for Granit Xhaka after the Sunderland captain signalled he would reunite with Alonso, but Sunderland flatly rejected the offer.
Henderson as an Alternative
Henderson is seen as an alternative, with Alonso wanting an experienced head in midfield. He also gets on well with Chelsea's new £117m signing, Morgan Rogers. Henderson joined Brentford a year ago from Ajax, having previously played for Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq after leaving Liverpool in July 2023.
His impact off the pitch is also valued. After England beat France 6-4 in the World Cup third-place play-off, England boss Thomas Tuchel revealed that Henderson had given a powerful pre-match speech.
"Jordan Henderson gave a very impressive speech today in the hotel to put this in the right frame and put everyone in the right mindset," Tuchel explained. "So he helped unbelievably today. That was very emotional and very, very impressive to put this game into perspective. I won't say what he said, but it puts into it perspective because he was part of this match eight years ago."
