Chelsea 'open to offers for Fernando Torres in January'

Chelsea are reportedly open to accepting bids for Fernando Torres during the January transfer window.

The 27-year-old Spanish striker moved to Stamford Bridge from Liverpool for a record £50 million on January 31, but has struggled to find form, scoring only three league goals in 25 appearances.

According to the Daily Mail, the Blues will be prepared to listen to any club that will offer £20 million and match his £150,000-a-week salary. The figure would represent a loss in value of some 60% - £30 million - in under a year.

Just two days ago, Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas re-affirmed his faith in El Nino. "[Not being a starter in the squad] doesn't mean that we don't trust his abilities," he told reporters on Sunday.

"By the way he's training, he's nearer to competing with Didier [Drogba] every time. They are very, very near each other and, again, it's just for me to decide what's best for the team."

Chelsea, who have yet to comment on the rumours, currently sit third in the table, seven points adrift of leaders Man City.