‘Atletico want Torres in time for derby’

Juanfran has said Atletico Madrid are keen to complete the signing of Fernando Torres in time for the Copa del Rey derby with Real Madrid on January 7.

The Milan loanee is reportedly closing in on a return to Vicente Calderon, with Alessio Cerci thought to be heading to San Siro in the opposite direction.

Consequently, the full-back is desperate to see a deal tied up so the former Liverpool striker can mark his comeback against Atleti's bitter rivals.

"Like all of Atleti, I'm looking forward to the signing of Torres once it's confirmed," he issued to reporters in his hometown of Crevillente.

"Fernando's a great player. I'm convinced that with the desire of him, the club and the Coach, we'll see a great Fernando.

"He'll give everything he's got. He's always scored a lot of goals, has a lot of heart and knows what it means to wear the Atleti jersey.

"I hope he's here in time for the derby. I haven't spoken to [Cerci] but he's our player and we want him to stay because we're currently a great team."

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