Diego Simeone has failed to dampen speculation linking Fernando Torres with an emotional return to Atletico Madrid.
The Spanish international is at a crossroads of his career, having been deemed surplus to requirements at Chelsea despite having two years remaining on his contract. Jose Mourinho, who took Diego Costa from the Vicente Calderon in the summer, agreed to let the former Liverpool striker see out this term in Italy at AC Milan, yet this move has thus far failed to produce success.
Torres has scored just one goal in 10 Serie A appearances for the Rossoneri, of which seven have been starts. This has already raised question marks over his long-term future at the San Siro, and it has also led to reports linking him with a return to Atletico where he played alongside Simeone. However, the Rojiblancos coach is refusing to get dragged into the speculation.
“I have to be very respectful of my squad. Talking about another team’s player wouldn’t be fair,” said the Argentine coach. “I’m only focused on my club’s business, my lads. Fernando knows me, and he’s aware that the most important thing are the guys already with us. I only focus on the players who have to win the game. I’m the coach and I’m only focused on helping the team win.”
It has been suggested that Chelsea, who paid £50million to take Torres from Liverpool in January 2011, are prepared to let the 30-year-old leave Stamford Bridge on a free transfer if he can find a new club; indeed, in affect this is what they did when they let Milan take him for two years. But if the Italians decide against signing him permanently, he could be an option for Atletico.
Is Atletico Madrid the best place for Torres to get his career back on track before it’s over? Let us know what you think by joining in the discussion below.
