Transfer: Dutch Giants Ajax Reject Monaco's Bid for Captain Jordan Henderson

Ajax have blocked a transfer of captain Jordan Henderson to AS Monaco, with the Dutch giants deeming him 'too important' to leave in January.

According to Dutch media reports, the Ajax board has blocked a potential transfer of team captain Jordan Henderson to Ligue 1 outfit AS Monaco. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano had previously reported that AS Monaco were close to signing Henderson on an 18-month deal.

However, Dutch media outlets have disputed this claim, stating that Henderson is set to stay at Ajax. De Telegraaf's Mike Verweij reported that technical director Alex Kroes rejected Monaco's proposal, telling the French club that Henderson would not leave this January as he is deemed to be “too important” for the second-placed side.

Kroes is reportedly open to negotiating a summer transfer for the 34-year-old English international, who has expressed a desire to move to France. Voetbal International's Tim van Duijn reported that Kroes would entertain negotiations for a summer transfer. Henderson joined Ajax in January 2024 after leaving Saudi side Al Ettifaq and is one of the top earners at the club.

A transfer would free up valuable space in Ajax's salary cap, which is a priority for the club during times of financial difficulties. Ajax have been seeking to generate transfer funds, and Henderson's departure could provide a significant boost. AS Monaco were reportedly prepared to go to “great lengths” to sign Henderson, but will have to wait until the summer window to pursue the transfer again.