When Jordan Henderson was sent out on loan to Coventry City in 2009, nobody could have predicted the situation just two years later. Henderson’s form in the Sunderland first team has been nothing short of terrific over the past year and with that, Liverpool have confirmed that they have agreed to buy the midfielder for a fee thought to be around £20m.
There has been plenty of speculation regarding Henderson’s future in recent months, with Manchester United also thought to be keen suitors. However, it has today been confirmed that rivals Liverpool will be the ones to land the 20-year-old, with a Sunderland statement reading: “A fee has been agreed with Liverpool for Jordan Henderson and he travels to Anfield with the club’s blessing.”
As well as the money, there are also reports that David Ngog is part of the deal although neither party has yet confirmed this.
Henderson’s progress has certainly been rapid and after impressing in his loan spell at Coventry a couple of years ago, it wasn’t long before Steve Bruce gave him his chance in the Sunderland first team. He grasped that opportunity with both hands and after several impressive displays, the Black Cats awarded him with a 5-year-contract.
Since then, he has continued to progress and in November he was called up to the England squad where he made his international debut against France. While that is his only appearance for the national squad to date, he is expected to become a key fixture in Fabio Capello’s plans with many rating him as one of England’s best young prospects.
As it stands, the deal has not yet formally gone through although it is thought a conclusion is very near. Henderson is currently undergoing a medical at Anfield and with television pictures showing him in Liverpool attire; it looks as though the £20m deal is almost complete.
