Ryan Babel will remain at Liverpool for the time being, manager Kenny Dalglish has confirmed.
Asked about Babel’s future, Dalglish said: “He is staying here.”
The 25-year-old Netherlands international was expected to leave Liverpool for German club Hoffenheim after the two teams agreed a fee.
However, Babel has expressed a preference for a move to Ajax, possibly as part of a deal to bring Uruguay striker Luis Suarez to Anfield.
Babel began his career with Ajax before joining Liverpool for £11.5 million in 2007.
Liverpool have been linked with a possible £20m bid for Suarez, who scored three goals for Uruguay on their way to the semi-finals of the World Cup in South Africa.
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Suarez is a unique player. He has amazing skills and will be a great addition to your team
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Dalglish was tight-lipped about Liverpool’s transfer targets at a news conference on Monday ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League match with Fulham.
He refused to be drawn on whether the club had increased its bid for Blackpool’s Charlie Adam, who BBC Sport understands has submitted a transfer request.
“One of our ways is to be respectful of other clubs and certain players at other clubs,” added Dalglish.
Blackpool chairman Karl Oyston said they had rejected a £4m bid for the Scotland international on Friday. It is believed that Liverpool could be ready to increase their offer to £5m.
