Fernando Torres could be about to become the world’s highest paid footballer

Liverpool fans would pay anything to get the old Fernando Torres back in their side right now.

The former Reds striker was simply unplayable when he was at his peak under Rafael Benitez in the late 2000s. But it all went horribly wrong at Chelsea and after a spell at AC Milan, the Spaniard is now back at Atletico. Once lethal, Torres now seems well past his best but even still, it seems as though the lure of serious bucks in China, or renminbi to be correct, may see him leave his home town club once more. According to his agent, the striker has an offer from eight clubs at the moment, and one which could see him become the world's wealthiest footballer. Jose Antonio Martin Peton claims the former Spain international may be tempted by a move to Asia as his opportunities at the La Liga side are currently limited. Talks are imminent between Torres, his Mr 15% and the the big wigs at Atletico over the striker's future.

"Fernando and Simeone should sit down and talk about it.  The fans of Madrid don’t want Torres to be told no continually.  He has an offer that would make him the best-paid in the world. There are nuances. It all depends upon the will of the club. "The fans want his contract renewed and it is something that can’t be denied."

Moves to China are becoming more and more popular with Premier League players of yesteryear but so far, life in Asia has not suited too many former stars, with Didier Drogba cutting short his time with Shanghai Shenhua, but others such as Tim Cahill enjoying better luck.