Earlier this week, Fulham confirmed that Ryan Babel would leave the club after the expiry of his short-term, six-month permanent contract.
The winger was always likely to depart Fulham after their relegation, and Sky Sports reported that the winger was close to joining Galatasaray next season.
However, it seems surprising that no Premier League club has yet taken note of the Dutch international’s impressive form and been linked with a move for Babel – who is now available on a free transfer.
Amid an abysmal Fulham side, the former Liverpool attacker stood out as a beacon of positivity and accomplished forward play. In a team that lacked creativity and goals, Babel chipped in with five goals and three assists, impressive tallies for the Whites.
Against Cardiff City, Babel scored one of the goals of the season with a swerving right-footed strike into the top corner. Throughout his time at the club, the Dutchman played with intensity and aggression, hardly fitting the stereotype of a disinterested short-term mercenary in a relegation-bound side.
Babel was one of few players to exit the Fulham season with pride and should attract the attention of other English clubs. The winger still has the attributes to challenge at the top level, and he would be a brilliant asset for the likes of Everton or Crystal Palace.
A return to Turkey looks likely, but an ambitious Premier League side would do well to snap up Babel this summer on a free transfer.
