- Fernando Torres reportedly ‘eyeing’ return to England
- Spaniard played for Liverpool between 2007-2011
- Linked with reunion with Rafa Benitez
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Finally, the time has come for the transfer rumour mill to propose a Hollywood return to the Premier League for Fernando Torres.
With Diego Costa available for selection when Atletico Madrid’s transfer ban ends after the New Year, Torres is reportedly fearful of a lack of game time.
The former Liverpool striker’s ideal scenario would be to play out the remaining 18 months of his contract in Spain, although the likely lack of involvement has triggered him to look elsewhere.
Southampton and Newcastle are keen on the deal, with the 33-year-old’s representatives having expressed his wish to leave on loan in January, according to the Mirror.
The forward’s age makes a fairytale return to Anfield highly unlikely, though there are undoubtedly lots of fans who would love to see him back in a Liverpool shirt for one last time.
A reunion with Rafa Benitez, who signed him for the Reds for £26.5million in 2007, would be an interesting prospect given Newcastle’s glaring need for a centre-forward.
Torres was an undisputed favourite during his time on Merseyside, striking up a frightening partnership with Steven Gerrard and registering a prolific tally of 81 goals in 142 appearances.
Having come under fire for his attitude during his £50million transfer to Chelsea in 2011, he has since been somewhat forgiven by fans.
There will be plenty who would love to see him have one final season in England’s top flight.