According to the Daily Mail, Valencia are looking at misfiring Chelsea striker Fernando Torres as a replacement for the outbound striker Roberto Soldado, who could complete a switch to Tottenham Hotspur this week.
Torres has had a torrid time ever since making his much publicized £50 million switch from Liverpool. The Spaniard has not fulfilled the expectations of the club and its supporters, increasing frustration amongst both. It is clear that the £50 million price tag was adding unneeded pressure on Torres to perform, and the striker could not convert this pressure into performances. Despite winning the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League with the club, Torres has not been able to show the form he displayed in the Barclays Premier League during his stint at Liverpool under Rafa Benitez.
Benitez took charge of proceedings last year as interim boss, and helped improve Torres’ performances on the pitch. In terms of presence, pace and creativity, Torres was back in better form last season; even though the number of goals on the scoresheet were still a bit low, the Spaniard had found his touch, with more glimpses of brilliance in games. Also, with the introduction of Eden Hazard, Torres had a player who he could receive the ball from and depend on for quality service. Juan Mata also had an important hand in ensuring Torres picked up confidence yet again by giving him quality, defense opening passes to run on to.
When Jose Mourinho made his comeback to Chelsea, eyebrows were raised about Torres’ future at Stamford Bridge, but many reckoned due to his price tag, owner Roman Abramovich would not be happy to sell for a much lower price without a decent return. Spurs have been making the headlines, after Real Madrid launched a world record £85 million bid for their Welsh sensation Gareth Bale. Spurs are closing in on a deal for Soldado, and that cash could make Valencia bid for Torres.
Torres will have a soft spot for Spain, as he gained recognition during his time at Atletico Madrid, and could be tempted for a move back to his homeland, especially one season before the FIFA World Cup in Brazil.