Chelsea 'could have signed Fernando Torres for £20m’ says former reserve team manager Brendan Rogers

Rodgers, who takes Swansea City to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, recommended the Spaniard to Chelsea when he worked for them.

Reserve team manager under Jose Mourinho, Rodgers was sent to the Nou Camp in 2006 to run the rule over the 21-year-old Atlético Madrid captain, who scored twice in a 3-1 victory.

In the end, Torres remained in Spain until joining Liverpool a year later, for close to £20million. In January this year, he signed for Chelsea for £50million.

“He’s a wonderful talent, a great striker,” said Rodgers. “I remember going to watch him back in 2006 when he was with Atlético Madrid. I think he was captain at the time. He was outstanding, a real catalyst for that side.”

Asked what his recommendation had been, Rodgers said: “To take him.”