Report: Fernando Torres given opportunity to leave Atletico Madrid in New Year

Atletico Madrid have reportedly given Fernando Torres the opportunity to decide whether to remain at the club in the New Year.

Diego Costa will become available for Diego Simeone in January, leaving six forwards vying for just two starting spots up front in Atleti's starting XI.

At present, Simeone - who favours a 4-4-2 formation - has Antoine Griezmann, Kevin Gameiro, Angel Correa, Luciano Vietto and Torres at his disposal.

According to Marca, the main candidate to leave is Vietto, but Torres has also appeared as one of the names on the table and Atleti will not stand in his way if he decides to leave or stay.

However, the report claims that the former Liverpool and Chelsea forward will continue to fight for a spot on the Spanish side at least until next June and is confident of keeping his place in the team.

Torres has made 16 appearances for Los Colchoneros this season, scoring twice.