Exclusive: Bristol City and Swansea City plotting Liam Henderson transfer
Bristol City and Swansea City are plotting to sign Empoli midfielder Liam Henderson on a free transfer, sources have told Football Insider.
Having initially come through the youth ranks at Celtic, the midfielder began his senior career with the Scottish giants, while also spending time out on loan with Hibernian.
He has though, spent the last seven years in Italy, after being sold to Bari back in the 2018 January transfer, before going on to play for Hellas Verona, Lecce, Palermo and most recently Empoli.
The 29-year-old is however in line for a return to the United Kingdom this summer, with clubs in the Championship lining up a move.
Liam Henderson targeted for England move
It is understood that clubs in England’s second-tier are keen to sign Henderson ahead of next season, with Bristol City and Swansea eyeing moves for the midfielder.
With his contract at Empoli expiring at the end of the current campaign, he will also be available on a free transfer this summer.
The 2024/25 campaign ended in disappointment for Henderson and Empoli, as they finished 18th in Serie A, confirming their relegation to Italian football’s second-tier.
That situation will likely aid sides such as Swansea and Bristol City as they aim to convince Henderson to make the move to the Championship.
Given his vast experience and proven ability at top-flight level, the 29-year-old would be a welcome addition for those clubs, who have had rather different close-seasons so far.
Swansea City strengthening as Bristol City face managerial upheaval
Despite reaching the Championship play-offs this season – where they were beaten by Sheffield United – Bristol City have already lost manager Liam Manning to Norwich this summer.
As a result, the Robins are currently in a state of uncertainty, as they search for a new man to take charge of first-team affairs.
By contrast, the Swans have already made three signings, with centre-back Ricardo Santos becoming the latest to make the move to Swansea, as revealed by Football Insider.
It is understood that the Welsh outfit are also battling Sheffield United for the signing of Leyton Orient midfielder Ethan Galbraith.
Given Henderson would further strengthen the ranks of either side, the midfielder would be an encouraging addition for Swansea or Bristol City.