Brentford transfer news: Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson set to make Premier League return with Bees after Ajax exit

Jordan Henderson is set to join Brentford on a free transfer. The 35-year-old midfielder, formerly of Liverpool and Ajax, is expected to sign a two-year deal with the Bees. The move is being finalized over the weekend, with a formal announcement to follow.

This potential signing comes shortly after Brentford sold their captain and first-choice defensive midfielder, Christian Norgaard, to Arsenal on July 10. Henderson left Ajax on July 9 after only 18 months with the Dutch club. Brentford has also recently seen head coach Thomas Frank depart for Tottenham, with Keith Andrews appointed as the new manager.

Despite Henderson's age, Brentford believes his experience – including 84 caps for England and winning the Champions League with Liverpool – will bring vital quality and leadership to their squad and dressing room.

A statistical comparison between Henderson and Norgaard from last season reveals similarities in their profiles, particularly in their heat maps and areas of defensive actions. While Norgaard offered more of a goal threat, won more duels, and completed more ball recoveries, Henderson created more chances and surpassed Norgaard in passes completed and final-third passes completed.