Jordan Henderson now heavily linked with move to European giant

Jordan Henderson is now heavily linked with a move to a European giant. The former Liverpool captain hasn't clicked in the Middle East.

Jordan Henderson appears certain to leave the Saudi Pro League and Al Ettifaq this month. Reports circled during the week that he wanted out, bringing about talk of Premier League sides or maybe even Ajax.

But now another European giant has jumped to the front of the queue. Numerous reports in Italy, such as from Corriere Dello Sport, claim that Juventus are getting closer and closer to signing Henderson.

The suggestions are that it would be an 18-month loan for Juve, with a dramatic decrease from his enormous wages in Saudi Arabia. Henderson would get the return to elite European football that he seemingly craves.

And, it should be said, a shot at another league title. Juventus are second in Serie A, just two points behind leaders Inter. The Old Lady will hope that Henderson's experience is what can help them overhaul their rivals and get back to the summit of Italian football.

---

Should this move happen, Henderson would become just the eighth player to feature for both Liverpool and Juventus. It's a link that was first brought about by Ian Rush, who famously struggled to adapt to life in Italy, describing it as 'like living in another country'. Which to be fair, it was just like that.

Since then, ex-Reds Nicolas Anelka, Alberto Aquilani, Momo Sissoko and Emre Can have all moved to Juventus at some point in their careers. Christian Poulsen and Arthur are the only two to do it the other way around - first Juve, then Liverpool.

What's particularly notable about it all, though, is that none of these players managed to find success at both clubs. Really Sissoko is the only one, having been a very solid player for the Reds before playing 89 times for Juventus.

But starring for both? It hasn't happened. Henderson will hope to be the first.