10 Most Expensive Transfer Flops In Liverpool History

7. Ryan Babel

Ryan Babel signed for the Reds for £11.5m in July 2007, and he was widely regarded as one of the hottest properties in Dutch football. He was just 20 years of age, and his raw pace, shooting ability and technical skill had many comparing him to Arsenal legend Thierry Henry when he arrived on Merseyside. Babel scored 10 times in 49 appearances in 2007/08, including goals against Arsenal and Chelsea in the Champions League knockout stages. He often flattered to deceive, however, and his preference to cut in from the left onto his right foot became extremely one-dimensional. The top defenders sussed him out. Over the next three years he never failed to hold down a regular spot in Liverpool's starting XI, often having to try and impress with late cameos, and he just never came close to reaching his huge potential. Babel is still only 27, and is currently plying his trade at Turkish side Kasimpasa. What a waste. He was a deeply frustrating player during his four years at Anfield, and although he was not fairly reasonable at times, he should have been so much better.