It's fair to say that things have not gone to plan for Al-Ettifaq under Steven Gerrard this season. Not only have have they gone over two months without a win and find themselves sitting eighth in the Saudi Pro League, but their marquee signing is also looking to manufacture a move away from the club.
Jordan Henderson was signed last summer with the aim of raising the standards under their new manager, but the move has so far proven to be an unsuccessful one for all involved. The midfielder is now hoping to leave in January, although it could be difficult to find a suitor considering the money he is earning at the moment.
Despite the lack of success experienced by both Henderson and Gini Wijnaldum, it seems Steven Gerrard is keen to sign another player strongly associated with Liverpool in the months ahead.
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Steve Gerrard hoping to lure Liverpool defender to Saudi Arabia
Al-Ettifaq may have had a very poor season up to this point, but Steven Gerrard and the club are already planning for the summer transfer window.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, that includes a move for Liverpool centre back Joel Matip, whose contract at Anfield expires at the end of the season.
Exclusive: Al-Ettifaq plan face-to-face talks with Jordan Henderson in Abu Dhabi next week and won’t be pressured into a sale.🗣️
- Steven Gerrard and Mark Allen to lead discussions on Sunday or Monday
- Henderson is self-representing after PLG did the deal to take him to Saudi
-…— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) January 9, 2024
Jurgen Klopp is thought to be keen for the player to sign a new deal, although that process has been complicated by the serious knee injury Matip suffered in recent times. He will miss the rest of the season and there is no timetable on his return as of yet.
Considering that and the fact that he will turn 33-years old this summer, the hierarchy at Liverpool may find it difficult to justify a new contract for a player they signed on a free transfer from Schalke back in 2016.
Should they not do so, it seems Steven Gerrard and Al-Ettifaq will be waiting in the wings to attempt to lure the player to Saudi Arabia.
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