Scotland international defender Jack Hendry is attracting significant interest from Major League Soccer in the United States as he prepares to become a free agent this summer.
Post-Saudi Arabia Crossroads
The 30-year-old centre-back, currently playing for Steven Gerrard's Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, will see his contract expire at the end of the current campaign. This situation has alerted clubs on both sides of the Atlantic, with LA Galaxy and LAFC understood to be among the leading MLS franchises monitoring his availability.
Hendry, who began his professional career at Celtic, is reportedly open to all offers from the UK and abroad. However, the prospect of continuing his club career in the United States holds a particular appeal, especially with the 2026 World Cup finals set to be hosted in North America.
World Cup Focus and Varied Career Path
The immediate priority for the 6ft 5ins defender is to cement his place in Steve Clarke's Scotland squad for the upcoming tournament. Scotland secured dramatic qualification and will discover their group stage opponents in Friday's draw. A strong performance on the world stage would undoubtedly enhance his profile as he decides his next club move.
Hendry's career has taken him across Europe and the Middle East. After leaving Celtic, he had spells with MK Dons, Club Bruges, and KV Oostende before his 2023 move to the Saudi Pro League. This varied experience has shaped him into a modern, ball-playing defender coveted by several teams.
Decision Timeline and Options
While initial enquiries from MLS sides have been made, Hendry is in no rush to commit. He is expected to weigh up all his options in the coming months, with a decision likely after the summer's international commitments. The chance to play in the USA ahead of a home-nation World Cup is a compelling narrative, but other avenues remain under consideration.
For now, the focus remains on his performances for Al-Ettifaq and, crucially, for Scotland. His next move will be a pivotal moment in a career that has already seen considerable journeying.
