Overview

• Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman and head coach Regis Le Bris view Henderson as the ideal leader to add experience and drive to their top-flight return.
• Henderson’s current Ajax contract runs until 2026 with an option for an extra year, and uncertainty has grown after Ajax surrendered a nine-point lead to lose the Eredivisie title.
• The 34-year-old England midfielder has expressed his preference for a Premier League comeback at the Stadium of Light.
• Beyond Sunderland, Henderson has drawn interest from Rangers—contingent on a Steven Gerrard appointment—and several Serie A clubs.
• Former Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn praised Henderson’s character and influence, saying his potential homecoming would be “something else” for the club.