Chelsea FC: Diego Simeone Hints At Fernando Torres Return
Chelsea FC fans that are eager to get rid of misfiring striker Fernando Torres have been thrown another lifeline by Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone. Simeone revealed that Torres is still in contact with Simeone, whom he played with at Atletico, and is always asking about the affairs of the club. Torres himself has stated that Atletico will always be special to him as he grew up as a player at the Estadio Vicente Calderon. The Spaniard has been linked with moves to Inter Milan or back to Atletico all season and it is clear which of the two destinations he would prefer.
Torres spent 12 years of his life at the club, starting as an 11 year old in their youth setup and signed his first professional contract at 15. He was the subject of bids from Chelsea FC before the 2006 World Cup but Atletico turned the Blues down. He finally made the move to English football in 2007 to Liverpool and we all know the story from there.
Diego Simeone on Fernando Torres:
"“Torres is always in contact with the team to wish them luck and occasionally sends me messages. He is delighted with everything that’s happening at Atleti. How could he not want to return to the club where he was born?”"
Returning to Atletico in some sort of player swap plus cash transfer would be ideal for all parties involved. Atletico profit off Diego Costa and get an experienced replacement, and Chelsea get the striker they need and the one they do not want off their books. Fernando Torres may also be willing to give Atletico a “hometown discount” and restructure his wages. They are a club with a European presence as well and Torres remains an very marketable athlete. He may not be on the biggest stages anymore but he has shown time and again that he is no longer the player for the bright lights anymore.
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