Senegal striker Demba Ba's refusal to attend Hoffenheim's winter training camp in a transfer dispute has prompted the club to threaten him with a suspension. General manager Ernst Tanner also warned Ba he could be left without a club for six months, until his contract expired.

Ba, a possible transfer target of several clubs including West Ham, refrained from traveling to Spain with his teammates.

"Demba's behavior will certainly have consequences," Tanner said. "This approach to his employers, but also to his teammates cannot be tolerated. We have already had this situation with Demba Ba wanting to get away at all costs. The way the player has tried for a second time to put pressure on his employers must be a first in the Bundesliga."

Two years ago, Ba said he would never play for Hoffenheim again after Stuttgart attempted to acquire him.