Why Chelsea Should Not Bid for Fernando Torres

If recent rumours are to be believed the 2009-10 EPL champions Chelsea are preparing a massive 50m bid for Liverpool’s star striker Fernando Torres.

The beleaguered Merseyside outfit is passing through a rough phase with their ownership yet to be decided and an uncertain future beckoning them.

Liverpool’s most successful striker has fuelled speculations of a possible exit from Anfield in his recent interviews. Torres’ refusal to pledge his future at Merseyside has led to further speculations that the Spanish striker might make a move to greener pastures.

It is known that 28-year-old Torres followed the Reds’ former manager Rafael Benitez to Liverpool, but with the Spanish manager moving to a new adventure in Italy, his highly-rated follower might follow suit.

The double winning Blues’ are looking to revamp their ageing squad with younger players. With the exit of Ballack, Belletti and Joe Cole from Stamford Bridge and Deco most likely to leave, the EPL champions are looking to bring in some fresh talents as they prepare for the future.

But the move for the “El Nino” does not seem to be something in the right direction. The Blues’ have two star strikers in the likes of Drogba and Anelka, both of whom have been in top form. With Anelka signing an extension the Frenchman is set for another season at Stamford Bridge. The in-form Drogba too has committed his future with the Blues’.

Moreover, promising Chelsea youngsters like Sturridge and Gael Kakuta are ready to ply their trade in England’s top league. The highly rated Salomon Kalou has also committed his future with the Pensioners’. These are reason enough for Chelsea to not worry about their attacking options.

Hence, Chelsea needs to focus on their midfield. The exit of 3-4 of their veteran players has created a void and the Blues’ need to address that at present. They should sign new players to add depth to their midfield.

Further, it does not seem feasible to invest in a player like Torres who is very injury prone. “El Nino” has hardly been able to play a full season for Liverpool since his first. With Chelsea playing aggressive football requiring immense physical strength and durability, Torres’ might become a liability for the Blues—a very costly liability.

UEFA’s financial regulations are set to take effect from 2012 and Chelsea cannot afford such expensive transfers. The West London outfit needs to balance their books before the regulations come into effect if they are to avoid any sanctions. Thus, paying 50m for Torres’ will only take them further away from becoming self-sufficient.

Torres has not been in top form and is struggling in front of the goal since his return from injury. He has been a complete flop for Spain in the World Cup as well. His sharpness is lacking and he seems to be off-colour. There are plenty of young and promising players, and Chelsea could buy such a youngster without burning a hole in its pocket.

The West Londoner’s require a planned approach in their transfers instead of just splashing cash in the transfer market. If Chelsea can properly utilize the massive financial backing they have, they can turn into a financial behemoth in the future and achieve their goals too.