Birmingham are refusing to give up on Dutch forward Ryan Babel , after their first bid, believed to be nine million pounds, was rejected by Liverpool.
Alex McLeish has reportedly returned to Liverpool with a bid in excess of £10million as Birmingham looks to spend some of Carson Yeung’s money.
Babel’s agent Winnie Haatrecht said last night: "It is about doing what is right for Ryan's career as a whole, rather than taking a short-term view. We are not thinking about the World Cup. We are thinking about the next 10 years, and that is why we have to consider things carefully. I have sent details of all the interested clubs to Liverpool, and there are five or six of them. And we will make the decision that is best for him."
Haatrecht added: "We know Liverpool are thinking seriously about the amount Birmingham have offered, but we only start thinking about it in the same way when an agreement has been reached between the clubs. Even then, we need to look at how Birmingham's squad is being built up, how the prospects for future success appear and perhaps listen to what the manager has to say. The offer has not been rejected yet, but I can say, in general terms, Ryan would still like to be successful with Liverpool. If the people at Anfield feel it is better for him to leave, though, then we have to think about starting a new chapter in his career."
Widespread reports have claimed that Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez will not be able to use the money from Babel’s sale until next summer which means the Spaniard is loath to lose the player.
Galatasaray, managed by Frank Rijkaard, who worked with Babel at Ajax, are also interested in the Dutch international.
Ryan Babel, 23, has played 12 games this season for Liverpool in the Premier League and Champions League, scoring three goals and providing one assist.