It has taken Jordan Henderson little time to make a mark in the annals of Ajax's history, as his transfer has shattered a longstanding record at the Eredivisie club.
Henderson, who featured in only 19 matches for the Saudi Pro League team Al Ettifaq following his move from Liverpool last summer, has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract at the Johan Cruyff Arena.
Following the announcement by the club, he made a comment on his much-discussed departure from Al Ettifaq, highlighting that they mutually agreed to terminate his contract to facilitate the move.
“I’m sad to say that I will be leaving Al Ettifaq with immediate effect," he wrote. "It wasn’t an easy decision but one that I feel is best for me and my family."
"I want to take this opportunity to thank the club and the fans for all the support during my time. I really felt the love from day one. I’ll keep watching and hoping for your success. Good luck for the future," the England international added.
Ajax, presently occupying the fifth position in the Eredivisie table after a challenging start to the 2023/24 season, will soon make their number 6 jersey available for sale. In fact, Henderson's shirt has already become the fastest-selling player shirt in their history.
It is believed that his shirt has surpassed the previous record-holders, Dusan Tadic and Daley Blind, with 'Henderson 6' being sold more times within 24 hours than the aforementioned shirts were in a week.
A high volume of orders was expected given the player's status but not of this magnitude. “We rarely or never experience this,” a club source said to Sporstbible
Meanwhile, Ajax boss John van 't Schip is delighted with the arrival of Henderson.
"We wanted an experienced midfielder with leadership qualities," he said. "Partially due to injuries in the team, we were looking for someone who could step in immediately. Jordan Henderson is that type of player.
"His arrival means a huge enhancement for our squad. Both on and off the pitch, a football player of this calibre is important for our many young players.
"He’s an English international player and has won the Champions League and many other prizes with Liverpool. I am happy he’s here, and I think it’s very good for our club that he’s an Ajacied from today onwards."