Steven Gerrard is already planning a move for three Premier League players after being appointed as Al-Ettifaq’s new manager

Liverpool fans were left stunned today as reports emerged linking club captain Jordan Henderson with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq. The news came just hours after Steven Gerrard was confirmed as the new manager of the club, with the legendary Reds captain becoming the first Englishman to manage in Saudi Arabia.

According to the Daily Mail, Gerrard is keen to bring his former teammate to the Middle East this summer, with Henderson having just two years left on his current contract at Anfield. The 33-year-old midfielder has spent 12 years at Liverpool and has lifted every major honour available at the club during his time there.

However, with Liverpool signing two new midfielders in the aftermath of their disappointing fifth-place finish in the Premier League last season, Henderson’s game time is expected to diminish in the coming seasons. It is thought that he may have to fulfil the ‘James Milner role’ within Klopp’s squad, which could limit his opportunities on the pitch.

If Henderson were to make the move to Al Ettifaq, he would become the latest high-profile footballer to swap Europe for the riches of the Gulf State. Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N’golo Kante, and Marcelo Brozovic have all made the move to the Saudi Pro League in recent years.

The report also suggests that Gerrard could target out-of-favour Chelsea forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has struggled for form since signing for the London club last summer. If the Gabon international were to move to Al Ettifaq, it would be another major coup for the Saudi side.

Speaking of Gerrard’s appointment, Al Ettifaq’s president, Khaled Al-Dabal, said: “Without a doubt, Gerrard’s presence will be an addition and a quantum leap to our league as he is the first English coach to work in the Roshen League. And God willing, there will be subsequent technical additions to support the team so that Fares Al-Dahna will appear strongly during the new season’s competitions.”

For Liverpool fans, the news of Henderson’s potential departure will come as a shock, especially given his long and successful career at the club. However, with the midfielder now in the latter stages of his career and the club looking to refresh their squad, it may be time for both parties to move on.