Liverpool star striker Fernando Torres is the subject of a spectacular bid from Chelsea.
Chelsea have offered in the region of £35 million for the Liverpool man – which was immediately rejected by the Anfield outfit.
Torres, who has only hit the back of the net nine times this season, hasn’t performed to his capabilities this season.
But the Spaniard has burst into form over the past fortnight following the return to Anfield of Kenny Dalglish, bagging three goals in four games and having a goal unfairly disallowed against Blackpool on Wednesday night.
Despite a faltering season and a poor World Cup, Torres has remained Liverpool’s star man but Chelsea’s bid will be a great test of the new owner’s resolve.
Liverpool last night confirmed the audacious bid – instantly rejecting it.
A spokesperson said: “Chelsea have made a bid for Fernando which has been turned down. The player is not for sale.”
Had the offer been accepted it would have been the highest Premier League deal of all time, superseding the £30.8 million deal which saw Ukrainian Andriy Shevchenko sign for Chelsea from AC Milan.
It’s also another sign that Chelsea’s billionaire owner Roman Abramovich hasn’t fallen out of love with his London club.
The Russian oligarch earlier this week made a £52 million bid for Athletico Madrid stars Sergio Aguero and Diego Godin.
Chelsea are also looking at Benfica’s David Luiz as they look to resolve their faltering season after finding themselves in fourth place – ten points behind leaders Manchester United.
Liverpool are continuing to negotiate with Ajax for Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez but have so far hit a brick wall – with the Dutch giants failing, so far, to agree a fee for the hot-tempered forward.
Picture Credit: Nigel Wilson on Flickr