Fernando Torres to make permanent AC Milan switch

Chelsea have announced that striker Fernando Torres is to turn his loan stay at AC Milan into a permanent switch in the New Year.

The 30-year-old joined the Blues for a then-British record transfer fee of £50m in 2011, although he struggled to match the heights set at previous club Liverpool.

Torres, who moved to the San Siro on a two-year loan deal in August, was widely expected to depart Stamford Bridge in January, with Liverpool and Atletico Madrid among the interested parties for his signature.

However, Chelsea have now reached an agreement with Milan over a permanent deal for the Spanish World Cup winner, who will complete his move on January 5.

During his three-and-a-half years in West London, Torres helped the current Premier League leaders lift the Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup.