"Liverpool are looking to get a genuine goalscorer," Rush told Sky Sports News.
"Between them people like [Peter] Crouch, [Craig] Bellamy and [Robbie] Fowler have done well, but I think to compete for the league you're looking for someone to get maybe 20-25 goals a season and Torres looks to be that.
"He's got the ability and capability to [score 20-25 goals a season]. He can kick with both feet, I think it's always a great asset for striker.
"Liverpool don't need players to come in and learn the ropes, they need players to come straight into the side and Torres fits that.
"What they need now is those other two players - if they get them - to come staight into the side."