Fernando Torres would not have envisaged his Chelsea career turning out the way it has following his £50 million ($ 80 million) move from Liverpool in January, 2011.
The Spanish international's nightmare at Stamford Bridge could be set to end soon with former club Atletico Madrid ready to bring their prodigal son back to the La Liga at the end of the season.
Atletico are flying high in La Liga at the moment, in second place behind the untouchable Barcelona, who set a new points record with a 3-1 win over Malaga. Torres made his name with Atletico before signing for Liverpool, and the Spaniard has admitted his first club would always remain his favorite.
Atletico, seeing the uncertain situation at Chelsea, are ready to take advantage by offering Torres a way out in the summer on either a season-long loan deal or a cut-price move, according to the Sunday Express.
Juventus, Paris Saint Germain, Monaco and Besiktas are also reportedly interested in signing the striker.
Torres was booed for the first time by the Chelsea faithful in his 100th appearance, during the 2-0 loss to Swansea in their Capital One Cup semi-final first leg. With the arrival of Demba Ba, Torres' chances are expected to reduce, with the Senegalese international making a big impact already.
Roman Abramovich is a huge fan of Torres and brought Benitez to Stamford Bridge, amid much criticism, to get the best out of the former Liverpool striker. However, despite, showing some form in patches, it is becoming increasingly clear that Torres will never be the striker he was at Liverpool.
There were suggestions in the British press that the 28-year-old striker was pining for a move back to Anfield, but a return to Atletico looks the more likely option at this stage.
"Atletico love Fernando and Fernando loves Atletico," a Spanish source told the Sunday Express.
"He might have to take less wages to make it happen, but it would be a match made in heaven if it does."
Chelsea are one of the frontrunners for Atletico striker Radamel Falcao's signature in the summer, and if a deal can be worked out involving Torres going the other way, it might suit both parties.
Everything depends on the next few months, though. If Torres suddenly finds his old touch again, Chelsea and particularly Abramovich might just reconsider the situation.
