Whilst a simple fact like the great man Carlo Ancelotti stating we were “not interested in another pure striker” wouldn’t stop the internet rumour mill from spinning like the wheel of a hamster on acid, surely Torres speaking out publicly in allegiance to his current club would.
We know how Liverpool fans feel on this, which in itself is an unsettling thought, however the summer of 2009’s “Terry to City” saga managed to eclipse the arrival of our new manager and unsettle a large portion of pre-season. If only we knew what disruption was to follow involving our captain.
Back to Torres, then.
We have learned the expectation within the ranks of sponsors and one of his main endorsement customers is that Torres will state his desire to remain at Liverpool once he has met with new Liverpool manager Woy...*ahem*.... Roy Hodgson.
The twist, though, is it is likely to be a bit of a “Ronaldo” - in that the player is believed to definitely desire a move away from the club, with Barcelona his preferred destination in a years time.
The issues this summer are his fitness in the World Cup, Barcelona OR Chelsea’s reluctance to go anywhere near the asking price, and Liverpool’s reluctance to further damage their image and prestige having failed to qualify for the Champions League. The likely scenario is a protracted exit strategy softened by Liverpool's re-qualification for the Champions League next season.
So keep an eye out, the pledge is coming, and if it isn’t and we’re wrong – it’ll be the first time in a while!