Wijnaldum warned against leaving Liverpool by fellow Dutchman

Former Liverpool player Ryan Babel has warned Georginio Wijnaldum against leaving Anfield, calling it his ‘biggest regret’.

Wijnaldum has been closely linked with a move to Barcelona as his contract debacle continues.

His current deal expires in June and he is stalling on an extension.

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Fellow Dutchman Babel has now responded to Wijnaldum’s situation. Speaking to the Mirror, he said: “I spent almost four years at ­Liverpool under Rafa Benitez and Kenny Dalglish.

“When I left to go and play in Germany, where TSG ­Hoffenheim had become a big force, it was to become the biggest regret of my career. The only reason I left was because I wanted to have more playing minutes to keep my place in the Holland team.

“But you don’t realise how dominating the playing style is at Liverpool until you play in a different team and league.

“I was brought up with really attacking football at Ajax. In the academy, you learn to play that way. When I moved to ­Liverpool, it was exactly the same. It is in the DNA of the club to play attacking football.

“I loved every ­minute I was at Liverpool. ­Fortunately, Dirk Kuyt was at Liverpool and he was a massive support to me.

“As a Liverpool player you are always in the spotlight. The club is massive.”

Manager Jurgen Klopp continues to play down the transfer rumours surrounding Wijnaldum. He is obviously hopeful that the midfielder will stay, but doesn’t want to add fuel to the fire.

Wolves have also been credited with a surprise interest in Wijnaldum. However, it’s thought that his ideal destination would be the Nou Camp.

The Reds need to hurry if they want to extend the 30-year-old’s contract. He has become an integral player in recent seasons alongside Jordan Henderson in midfield.