Babel heads to Hoffenheim

Liverpool attacker Ryan Babel has completed his move to German side Hoffenheim, agreeing a two and half year deal.

Liverpool had agreed the fee of around £6m with the Bundesliga side last week but Babel was reported to prefer a return to his old club Ajax, as part of a possible deal for Luis Suarez.

On Monday, manager Kenny Dalglish told reporters Babel was staying at Anfield but by Monday evening a club statement said “Ryan Babel has agreed a move to TSG 1899 Hoffenheim.”

Babel, who cost £11m when he arrived in 2007, has failed to fulfill his potential on Merseyside but leaves with some outstanding moments; most notably his late cameo against Arsenal, his incredible strike against Lyon and his cross for Gerrard’s goal against Real Madrid – all in the Champions League.

The Dutch international was subject to a late bid from Sunderland, report Sky Sports today.

LFC team mate Nathan Eccleston, currently on loan at Charlton praised Babel via his Twitter: “Ryan’s signing for his new team today I spoke with him last night. I wish him all the best great guy helped me a lot at LFC.

Babel leaves after a total of 146 appearances, having scored 22 goals.

Good luck at your new club Ryan.

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