Fernando Torres is close to agreeing a move back to Atlético de Madrid. Negotiations between the La Liga champions and Chelsea continued on Wednesday morning and everything points to a loan deal being agreed over the next few days which will see 'El Niño' return to his boyhood club.

Seven and a half years after announcing he was leaving Atlético de Madrid, Fernando Torres looks closer than ever to making his return to the Vicente Calderón.

Diego Simeone and his coaching staff have always been aware of the possibility, but until now there had been no negotiations or firm bids on the table. Germán Burgos said on 'la Cope' radio in the early hours of Tuesday morning that Torres would be welcomed back at the club: "I don't want to interfere in matters with my opinion, but it'd be wonderful". As simple as that.

Torres' Premier League salary has been an obstacle to a move in recent seasons, especially since his big money move from Liverpool to Chelsea during the 2010/11 season. However, his circumstances have now changed.

Firstly, because he did not figure in José Mourinho's plans and was sent out on loan to AC Milan. Secondly, because he is not playing in Italy and the Serie A side would be prepared to terminate his loan deal. Thirdly, because he is under contract until 2016 and would then be available on a free transfer.

Aside from the negotiations between the two clubs, the player knows full well that he will have to take a pay cut in order to return to his boyhood club.