[Mighty T.A.L.]

Reds will wait for Torres

Liverpool are prepared to play a waiting game for Fernando Torres, as Atletico Madrid dig their heels in over their captain and talisman.

The Spaniards are prepared to fight tooth and nail to hang on to the 23-year-old, after more than 350 supporters protested in a city square yesterday about his possible sale.

Talks have taken place between the Reds and Madrid officials, but with the player now on holiday until July 10, Liverpool are prepared to wait until Torres returns to pre-season training and can force the issue himself.

Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has told Liverpool he can't stop them buying Fernando Torres.

"All players have a buyout clause and if they meet it then there's nothing we can do," said Cerezo.

But that clause is set at £27m - a fee Liverpool believe is over-priced.

Reds officials also say they are unaware of any clause entitling the player to 10 per cent of the transfer fee, as reports today claimed.

As revealed in the Echo, as well as Torres Rafa Benitez has other targets in mind - among them PSV striker Arouna Kone, Ajax's Klaas Huntelaar and Diego Milito at Real Zaragoza.

Source: icLiverpool

I think Torres will only leave for Liverpool.