Liverpool star ready to seal £11m exit

Liverpool winger Ryan Babel is reportedly close to an Anfield exit, with Sunderland ready to renew their interest.

Dutchman Babel has struggled to make a major impact on Merseyside since moving in 2007, used sparingly by Benitez despite the Reds' lack of attacking options.

Linked with a move to Birmingham City earlier in the month, Babel has stood firm over a possible move. Rumoured to be holding out for a possible swap deal that would take him to either Arsenal or Spurs, a switch to London now appears unlikely and Sunderland a more likely destination.

A product of the famed Ajax academy, Babel made his debut for the Dutch giants in 2004. An international debut followed in 2005, and he now has 37 caps to his name.

The 23-year-old moved to Anfield for a fee of around £11.5 million, but has failed to live up to that price tag. The Reds have reportedly been trying to cash in, but are yet to take advantage of the interest in their versatile attack-minded player.

The possibility of a swap deal for Kenwyne Jones can't be ruled out, although both sides would deny that possibility after the weeks earlier actions. Bruce holds the ace however, and could push for a January deal as the window moves towards a close.

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