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Jordan Henderson to Rangers? £3.9m Salary Hurdle Threatens Potential Move Despite Open Path

As Rangers continue their search for a new manager amid a potential US-led takeover, speculation surrounding summer transfers is already heating up — and former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson is the latest name linked with a move to Ibrox.

Although there’s no official managerial appointment at Rangers just yet, rumours have gained traction following Dutch reports suggesting Henderson could be on the move from Ajax this summer, with Rangers one of the clubs interested in his services. However, despite the excitement such a signing would generate, a hefty £3.9 million wage demand poses a significant stumbling block.

A New Era Brewing at Ibrox?

Rangers find themselves at a pivotal juncture. The club is edging closer to a potential US investment deal that promises “substantial” financial backing, which could reshape its competitive stance in Scottish football. Simultaneously, the Ibrox board is deep into the process of appointing a new manager following Philippe Clement’s departure. Among the leading candidates is Davide Ancelotti, who is reportedly keen on the role, while speculation remains around a sensational return for former boss Steven Gerrard.

Regardless of who takes over, it seems clear the club is preparing to be active in the transfer market, and Jordan Henderson’s name being floated as a potential recruit has understandably caught attention.

Henderson’s Ajax Exit Looms

The 34-year-old England international, who joined Ajax in January after a brief and controversial spell at Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, has reportedly become surplus to requirements in Amsterdam. Dutch journalist Mike Verweij claims that Henderson’s exit is now likely following the departure of Ajax coach Francesco Farioli, who had been a strong supporter of the veteran midfielder.

Speaking to Voetbal Zone, Verweij stated:

“He is also being linked to Rangers. Steven Gerrard is said to be the new manager there and he would like to bring Henderson over. But Sunderland is his old club, and of course, he was not in the stands for nothing.”

Henderson, a former Sunderland academy graduate, recently made a public appearance at the Stadium of Light, which further fueled speculation that the Premier League-bound Black Cats are also in the race for his signature. Verweij added that Ajax are eager to offload Henderson’s significant salary, which had become a point of contention within the club’s management. Now, with Farioli gone, the Dutch side appears more open to letting the midfielder leave.

The Gerrard Connection

The potential of Steven Gerrard returning to Rangers adds another layer to the Henderson story. During his tenure at Liverpool, Gerrard served as Henderson’s captain and mentor. Their close relationship has continued into their post-Anfield careers, and there’s a suggestion that Gerrard, should he be reappointed at Ibrox, would be keen to bring Henderson with him as either a senior player or a member of his coaching staff.

TalkSPORT’s Jim White recently hinted at the possibility of a backroom trio comprising Gerrard, Steven Davis, and Henderson — a move that would unite Rangers’ past with fresh ambition. While this remains speculative, it underlines the emotional and professional ties that could bring Henderson to Glasgow.

£3.9 Million Salary a Major Obstacle

Yet, for all the headlines and intrigue, the reality of bringing Jordan Henderson to Rangers is fraught with financial concerns. The midfielder is reportedly earning around £75,000 per week at Ajax, which amounts to an annual salary of approximately £3.9 million. Even with US investment on the horizon, committing that kind of wage to a player in the twilight of his career would be a major shift from the club’s recent transfer strategy.

Over the past two transfer windows, Rangers have made concerted efforts to bring in younger, more financially sustainable talent. The board and sporting department have shown a reluctance to sign ageing stars on large salaries — a policy shift aimed at long-term competitiveness and financial health. Henderson’s arrival, while headline-grabbing, would run counter to that philosophy.

Moreover, the Ibrox outfit already faces a significant wage burden and would need to offload players or restructure their salary cap to accommodate such a high-profile addition.

Sunderland a More Likely Destination?

Given the emotional pull of a return to his boyhood club and Sunderland’s upcoming promotion to the Premier League, a move to the North East could make more sense for Henderson. The Black Cats are expected to bolster their squad for top-flight survival, and Henderson’s experience could be invaluable for their young core.

Crucially, Sunderland may be in a better position to absorb Henderson’s wages, especially with Premier League TV money coming their way. Add to that the fact that Henderson was recently spotted at a Sunderland match, and the stars could be aligning for a homecoming.

Verdict: A Glamorous Idea, But Impractical for Rangers

There’s no denying the appeal of Jordan Henderson pulling on a Rangers shirt. His experience, leadership, and winning mentality would instantly elevate the squad and offer invaluable support to younger players on and off the pitch. His connection with Steven Gerrard only adds more romance to the idea.

However, the financial reality cannot be ignored. Rangers, for all their ambition, must operate within a sensible fiscal framework — especially if they are to avoid the kind of financial instability that has haunted them in the past. Unless Henderson is willing to take a significant wage cut or come in a coaching capacity, it’s hard to see this move materialising.

As Rangers fans await confirmation of a new manager and details of incoming investment, the Jordan Henderson rumours provide an intriguing glimpse into what could be a transformative summer at Ibrox — albeit one that must be approached with financial caution and strategic clarity.