Diego Simeone: Fernando Torres would love to come back to Atletico Madrid

Fernando Torres eyeing a return to Atletico

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has revealed his wish to see a returning Fernando Torres to the Vincente Calderon this summer and play for the club where it all began.

The Rojiblancos coach who has been hugely responsible for Atletico’s successful campaign so far, has stated that he wouldn’t rule out a permanent move for the Chelsea striker who will face his former side in the semi finals of the Champions League.

While talking to a Spanish radio station, he said, “Fernando is always with us; obviously I have sent messages to him, he is very happy with everything that is happening to this team, he is always present, wishing us luck.”

“Of course he would love to come back to the club he grew up in and where he was very happy,” he added.

Back in 2007, Torres left Atletico to play for Liverpool in the Premier League. He had a hugely successful time with the Reds but has failed to make any major impact since he made his £50 million move to Chelsea in 2011.

However, his Spanish compatriot and Atletico’s mercurial forward Diego Costa has been quite sensational, putting in a string of consistent performances for them. Costa has tallied 25 goals in La Liga this year with 7 more in the Champions League. The 25 year old has been at the centre of things since Radamel Falcao departed for Monaco.

His impressive displays have caught the attention of Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho who has prioritised Costa as his main transfer target for the next window and Simeone, who has relied on his main man’s contributions has made it clear that he will totally back his striker’s decision if he wants to leave the club.

“It will depend on him and what he thinks is the best for his future,” the Argentine explained.

“I will support any decision he makes. It’s natural that Chelsea are interested in him. And that makes me happy, because my aim and that of my coaching staff is to see our players improve.”

“We understand that Chelsea have huge financial power, and if he wants to live off of football for the rest of his life, I will have no problem in him going.” added Simeone.

“It was like Radamel Falcao, how could I tell him not to go to Monaco?”

Simeone also confirmed that goalkeeper Courtois will be available to play for his side in their semi-final encounter against Chelsea. But the Argentine was unsure about the Belgian continuing for the capital side next season as his loan spell is set to end this summer.

“I have no doubt that he[Courtois] is going to play against Chelsea, and neither does he. We aren’t worried about it. One thing I don’t know is where he will be playing next year.”

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Edited by Staff Editor