Sunderland’s Dream Reunion with Jordan Henderson Back on the Radar After Ajax Transfer Drama

**Sunderland’s Dream Reunion with Jordan Henderson Back on the Radar After Ajax Transfer Drama** 

Sunderland are reportedly eyeing a sensational reunion with their former academy star Jordan Henderson, currently at Ajax. The whispers surrounding a potential return were strong last year, and with recent developments in Henderson’s career, they could heat up again as 2025 progresses. 

Henderson remains one of Sunderland’s most successful academy graduates, paving the way for the next generation of Black Cats talents. Youngsters like Chris Rigg and Tommy Watson are making waves, following in the footsteps of recent standouts such as Dan Neil and Anthony Patterson. 

Since leaving Liverpool, Henderson’s career has taken an interesting path. After a brief stint in Saudi Arabia with Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq, he made the switch to Ajax in 2024. However, his time in the Eredivisie hasn’t been without controversy. There were rumors of his discontent with his role at Ajax, though these reports were eventually dismissed. Sunderland had been linked with a move for him during the January transfer window, but those talks fizzled out quickly. 

**Henderson’s Failed Move to Monaco Sparks Fresh Speculation** 

As the January transfer window deadline approached, Monaco emerged as serious contenders to sign Henderson from Ajax. The deal seemed promising but ultimately collapsed at the eleventh hour. According to journalist David Ornstein, Henderson engaged in discussions with Ajax’s hierarchy and decided to stay put, focusing on helping the club in their pursuit of silverware. Ajax currently sit second in the Eredivisie and remain active in the Europa League, offering Henderson plenty to play for this season. 

With a contract running until 2026, Henderson’s long-term future at Ajax remains uncertain. The failed Monaco move has only fueled more speculation, leaving the door slightly ajar for Sunderland fans dreaming of his return. 

**What’s Next for Henderson? Could a Sunderland Homecoming Be on the Horizon?** 

Back in December, Henderson addressed rumors of a Sunderland return, downplaying immediate plans but affectionately referring to the club as “my club.” The bond between Henderson and Sunderland remains strong, suggesting that a future reunion isn’t entirely out of the question. 

For that to happen, though, two key factors may need to align: Sunderland’s promotion to the Premier League and a shift in Ajax’s stance on Henderson’s role and wages. Ajax’s recent attempts to offload high earners like Chuba Akpom—now set for a loan to Lille—signal a potential willingness to reduce their wage bill. Henderson, reportedly earning £74,000 per week, is one of Ajax’s highest-paid players, if not *the* highest. 

Come summer, if Ajax fail to secure silverware or if financial pressures mount, Henderson’s future could be up for debate once again. For Sunderland, securing promotion would not only boost their chances of landing Henderson but also fulfill the ultimate dream scenario—bringing their homegrown hero back to the Stadium of Light.