Liverpool striker Ryan Babel believes he is being forced out of the club as Birmingham up the ante for his services. The Dutchman has been linked with a move away from Anfield for some time now and as a deal gets closer, his agent revealed that a move will only be completed if it suits his career long-term.

"It is about doing what is right for Ryan's career as a whole, rather than taking a short-term view," Winnie Haatrecht said.

"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 admitted that a shift to Birmingham was still a possibility after Blues boss Alex McLeish put in a bid in excess of £10million.

"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," Haatrecht added.

"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."