Jordan Henderson is linked with a surprise move to Chelsea this summer – We have evidence from years ago from manager Xabi Alonso why he wants the ageing midfield general.
Henderson has had a solid season at Brentford, and on Monday there were reports that Chelsea are working to secure the 36-year-old midfielder. Brentford are willing to let him go on a free transfer, despite playing 33 Premier League games for the club last season.
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Several Premier League clubs are interested in the Englishman, but Chelsea are believed to be in the best position in the race for the signature.
For many, the transition will seem surprising – considering their age and the fact that quality is probably on the decline. But Xabi Alonso’s earlier praise of Henderson’s leadership skills reveals exactly why the Spaniard wants him in the squad.
Alonso: “Henderson is highly respected”
Henderson has undoubtedly had a brilliant career, with a number of trophies – including the Premier League and Champions League. But what he is perhaps best known for is the leadership qualities and impact he has in the locker room.
That’s exactly why he was selected for the 2026 World Cup with England – because of these invisible but crucial qualities.
Already back in 2019, Alonso highlighted this in an interview with BBC Sport, via Liverpool:
Henderson 2025/26 – key figures
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Current Market Cap | £1.7 million |
| Forced sales value | £1.4 million |
| Premium value | £2.2 million |
| Matches | 22 |
| Starter | 22 |
| Minutes Played | 2083 |
| Objectives | 1 |
| Assists | 3 |
Form curve and rating
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Seasonal momentum | 6.1 |
| Current Form | 6.7 |
| Seasonal height | 5.6 |
| Seasonal bottom | 6.3 |
| Average | 6.3 / 10 |
| Above average | Yes |
| Matches analysed | 10 |
Rating last 10 matches:
| 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⬆ | ⬆ | ➡ | ⬇ | ⬆ | ➡ | ⬇ | ⬆ | ➡ | ⬆ |
Welbeck also on the radar
On Monday, there were also reports that Chelsea want to sign Danny Welbeck from Brighton. The striker was a huge success for the “Seagulls” last season with 13 Premier League goals, and the club is back in Europe. There are reports of optimism from both parties that an agreement can be reached in the coming weeks.
It remains to be seen who Chelsea bring in before the window closes – but one thing is certain: Alonso is building something, and experience is at the top of his wish list.
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