Atletico Madrid is staring at the prospect of a full-fledged fan revolt after reports in Spain revealed that star striker Fernando Torres is in advanced talks with English giant Liverpool. Angry fans gathered in a Madrid plaza to protest the sale of the 23-year-old, who was brought up in the ranks at Atletico and has repeatedly professed his love for the club as a supporter since childhood. Fresh doubt was cast over that loyalty as reports alleged that a clause in Torres contract would entitle him to 10 percent of the estimated $50 million transfer. Nothing further is likely to be revealed until Torres returns from vacation on July 10.
Torres is understood to be the top target for Rafa Benitez and Liverpool, which has been quiet thus far in the transfer market despite reports of the manager's frustrations. If indeed Liverpool is nearing a deal for the Spanish international, that would explain the recent quiet from the Anfield club.
Liverpool will return to training on July 7 and likely without a big name acquisition. But Torres isn't the only one on the list. Benitez is also understood to be interested in PSV striker Arouna Kone, Ajax's Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Diego Milito of Real Zaragoza -- all strikers. It's an indication that Benitez is likely to add at least two to his lineup.
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