Fernando Torres opens up on Japan move

Fernando Torres said that he had been considering a move to Japan "for a long time" after officially joining new club Sagan Tosu.

The 34-year-old had been available on a free transfer this summer following his release from Atletico Madrid.

A number of clubs were linked with a move for the former Spain international, who has represented Atletico, Liverpool, Chelsea and AC Milan during a successful playing career.

However, Japanese outfit Sagan Tosu won the race for the centre-forward last week, and Torres could make his debut for the club against Shonan Bellmare on July 18.

"I've had the idea of ​​playing in Japan in my head for a long time, so I'm glad to be here," Torres told reporters. "I've always received expressions of affection from the Japanese people, and coming to play here was something that I had in my head for a long time.

"I was impressed by the atmosphere when I played against Sagan Tosu [in 2015]. I hope I'll be here for many years. My main objective in the short term is to take the team out of the situation they're in. For me it's not only a footballing challenge but also a cultural one.

"I received many offers from many different clubs, but Sagan Tosu were one of the first teams who showed interest in me. My family and I thought Japan were the best destination.

"I'm looking forward to starting training with them tomorrow. If everything goes well I can play a few minutes next week, but it's a decision that the coach will have to make."

Sagan Tosu are currently second from bottom in Japan's top division, having won just three of their 15 league matches this term.