Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez wants to blow his transfer budget on Atletico Madrid captain Fernando Torres.

DiarioSport says despite talk of a restricted transfer kitty, Benitez has demanded the Reds push the boat out to land Torres this summer. Negotiations have already begun, with talk of a £35 million fee as a starting point.

Benitez will be confident of talking down Atletico's asking price, particularly given Torres' buyout clause is set at £24 million. Also strengthening Liverpool's hand was Atletico's defeat on Saturday to relegation-haunted Celta Vigo. The loss leaves Atletico with only slim hopes of qualifying for Europe next season.

Benitez has settled on Torres after being told by intermediaries that Samuel Eto'o doesn't intend to leave Barcelona.

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