Real Betis are on the trail of former Liverpool frontman Ryan Babel, according to Estadio Deportivo.
Los Beticos’ boss Pepe Mel is looking to strengthen his attack after failing to land a striker in the summer transfer market, following Roque Santa Cruz’s decision to join Malaga after a year on loan at the Benito Villamarin.
The Andalusians are monitoring Babel’s situation at Ajax, where he returned at the start of this season from Hoffenheim having begun his professional career with the Dutch giants as a youngster.
Babel 25, has started just three times for Frank de Boer’s team this term and may welcome a switch to Spain in a bid to relaunch a career that appeared to have stalled at Anfield under Kenny Dalglish.
However, Mel is impressed by the fact the Dutch international is able to operate as an out-and-out striker or on either wing, which would increase his attacking options as he eyes a European place after an impressive start to the 2012-13 campaign.
