Chelsea are ahead in the race to sign Jordan Henderson on a free transfer, according to Fabrizio Romano, with the 36-year-old midfielder able to leave Brentford at the end of his short stay at the club. Henderson signed a two-season deal with Brentford last year to add experience to Keith Andrews' young squad, making 34 appearances in 2025-26.
Xabi Alonso is understood to see Henderson as a useful squad option and dressing-room presence, with Romano confirming the player is "open to the move" should a deal materialise. Two other clubs remain in the race alongside Chelsea, though talks with Brentford are not expected to yield a fee given Henderson is available on a free.