Fernando Torres 'to be loaned out in January'

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres is reportedly expected to leave the club in January on loan, should he continue to struggle at Stamford Bridge.

According to The Mirror, Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas is understood to be considering a short-term deal, with Spain the likeliest destination, to help the forward regain his form.

Torres, 27, has scored just once in 18 league games since arriving at the club at the beginning of the year. The Spaniard had previously netted 65 goals in 102 league appearances for Liverpool, earning him a €57m (£49m) move to London.

Chelsea have no interest in selling the Atletico Madrid product, whose recent form will have damaged his market value.