Sunderland should return to one transfer target after being told the likelihood of signing Jordan Henderson.
The Black Cats have been looking at potentially adding to their current midfield ranks.
The likes of Chris Rigg and Jobe Bellingham have shown particular signs of promise in the centre-of-the-park, and both at this point are being tipped to represent England at some point in their career, however Regis Le Bris still keen on adding to his current numbers.
Injuries have somewhat played habit with Alan Browne since his arrival, and Dan Neil hasn’t quite been at the peak of his powers since being handed the captaincy, and as a result a bolstered midfield wouldn’t be a bad idea.
As a result, Sunderland have been looking at swooping in for former midfielder Jordan Henderson in what would be a sensational move for the former England international.
Despite the interest coming from Sunderland for the 34-year-old, a Dutch expert has explained that it will be much more likely if the midfielder joined next summer, leaving Sunderland with the option to potentially explore a former target in January.
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Sunderland should explore signing of Enzo Bardeli as Jordan Henderson alternative
With the likelihood of Jordan Henderson arriving in January looking somewhat unlikely at this moment, they may have to branch out to other targets, and one which will make sense is Enzo Bardeli.
Sunderland were previously linked with the French midfielder, who is currently playing for USL Dunkerque in Ligue 2, and looking at the stats it is clear that Bardeli would offer much more to Le Bris’ side.
Per Sofascore, Bardeli has managed a goal and assist in his opening eight games with Dunkerque, but his real quality stands out when examining his playmaking abilities, with him averaging 2.3 key passes per game, whilst also creating three big chances.
He has also tallied up an impressive 78% passing accuracy, which is impressive when looking at the fact that Bardeli’s play is often offensive as he looks to get the ball forward at any given opportunity.
Sunderland must not let Jordan Henderson nostalgia cloud their judgement over signing
It is clear that it would be quite a coup to bring in Henderson, and having a midfielder with a Champions League win to his name, whilst also tallying 81 caps for England, would be brilliant for Sunderland to have in-and-around the younger players in the dressing room.
However, after a questionable last couple of years in his career that have seen hum struggle for game time at Ajax, whilst also making a bizarre move to Saudi Arabia, it is evidently clear that he isn’t at the peak of his powers, and the alternative signing od Bardeli would certainly make much more sense.
The wages that Henderson will likely arrive on could have a significant impact on the club’s financial situation, and whilst the move would be brilliant for nostalgia’s sake, Sunderland must look at the bigger picture when bringing in a midfielder.