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Newcastle transfer news: Rafa Benitez talks up Fernando Torres summer move
RAFA BENITEZ has admitted it would be 'appealing' to sign Fernando Torres at Newcastle this summer.
Fernando Torres is set to leave Atletico Madrid
The Magpies chief has reiterated his desire to remain on Tyneside, despite numerous reports linking him with a moves to West Ham and Arsenal.
Benitez will now seek assurances from Newcastle owner Mike Ashley over transfer funds this summer.
A host of names have already been linked with the North East outfit since the end of the season.
And Benitez has now revealed a reunion with Torres would be high on his priority list.
However, the Spaniard concedes a deal is unlikely.
Fernando Torres enjoyed his best spell under Rafael Benitez
It would be appealing, but I don't think it would be easy
"I think it will be harder for him to come for him, not because we don't want to," Benitez told Spanish outlet MARCA.
"I don't know what's going on in his head, but maybe he is thinking about something else.
"It would be appealing, but I don't think it would be easy."
Rafa Benitez wants to remain at Newcastle this summer
Torres has called time on his second spell at Atletico Madrid after falling down the pecking order behind Antoine Griezmann, Diego Costa, Angel Correa and Kevin Gameiro.
The 34-year-old is set to leave in the coming weeks and has already attracted interest in clubs from China and the US.
Torres scored 72 goals in 116 games under Benitez at Liverpool.