Jordan Henderson remains a key figure for England. (REUTERS/David Klein)
Nottingham Forest did the unthinkable in 2024/25.
After narrowly avoiding relegation the previous year, Nuno Espírito Santo’s side shocked the Premier League by finishing seventh—securing a place in next season’s UEFA Europa Conference League play-offs and marking their first return to European football in over 30 years.
With a busier fixture schedule on the horizon, Forest know they need reinforcements.
The club has already rejected approaches for key winger Anthony Elanga and is expected to finalise deals for Botafogo trio Jair Cunha (CB), Igor Jesus (ST), and Cuiabano (LB)—all standouts in the Brazilian Serie A-winning side. The trio have even starred at the 2025 Club World Cup, where Jesus scored the winner in a shock upset over PSG.
But will that be enough?
Forest Eyeing Henderson
According to the Daily Mail, Nottingham Forest are eyeing a surprise summer move for England international Jordan Henderson.
The 35-year-old midfielder is available on a free transfer, thanks to a clause in his Ajax contract that allows him to leave at the end of the season.
Henderson has yet to decide whether he will stay in Amsterdam, but Forest—alongside Ligue 1 side Marseille—are keen to secure his experience as they prepare for a demanding campaign.
Despite fan skepticism, Henderson made 45 appearances for Ajax last season, playing a key leadership role as Francesco Farioli’s men narrowly missed out on the Eredivisie title. He remains a key figure in Thomas Tuchel’s England setup, with the manager praising his influence earlier this year.
“He’s still lean, fit, and ready to push on, on an international level. I’m convinced he’s still ambitious,” said Tuchel. “He pushes the group, he takes care of training, the attitude. He brings players together. We see better versions of players when Jordan is in camp.”
As Forest chase their European dream, Henderson’s leadership and elite experience might just be the final ingredient they need.
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