There is plenty of interest in Newcastle United midfielder Jeff Hendrick, and Scottish side Aberdeen are hoping that the prospect of Europa League football can help lure him North of the border.
Hendrick, 31, is not in Eddie Howe’s plans for the season, and spent last season on loan at Championship side Reading, where he scored four times in 45 appearances.
The Press and Journal have now reported that despite interest from a number of English sides including Leeds United, Aberdeen are hoping that their participation in European group-stage football will give them the edge in attracting Hendrick for a loan move.
Aberdeen have a second-leg tie against BK Hacken to contend with tomorrow, with the score currently level at 2-2, and if they win they will progress to the Europa League group stages. They will advance to the Europa Conference League group stages even if they lose.
European football is not something any Championship side can offer Hendrick, and Aberdeen are hoping that this will be a strong enough temptation for Hendrick to move to Scotland.
A new challenge?
Hendrick has spent his entire senior career in England, with spells at Derby County and Burnley prior to his move to Newcastle in 2020.
He has since spent some time at QPR and Reading on loan, and Newcastle are willing to let him leave with just one year left on his deal.
Whilst he can return to familiar ground in the Championship, it will be interesting to see whether the 79-cap Republic of Ireland international will be tempted by the possibility of playing European football in Scotland.
Hendrick made just 27 appearances for Newcastle during his time at the club, and has never played European football in his career. A move to Pittodrie could change that, and could help revitalise his career.
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