Athletico bid for Forlan

Last updated : 25 June 2007 By Al Campbell
Athletico's bid for Forlan suggests they are preparing for life without their captain Fernando Torres, who is Rafael Benitez's number one transfer target this Summer.

Liverpool have reportedly already offered Athletico £16m plus Luis Garcia for Torres but has been turned down as the Spanish side want the Reds to meet Torres' £27m escape clause.

"[Liverpool's bid was] insufficient - if you keep in mind that Fernando guarantees you 15 goals per year, especially when Nani, an unknown player, cost Manchester United £20m," said Torres' agent Antonio Sanz.