Roman Abramovich has finally conceded defeat in getting £50 million striker Fernando Torres back to his scoring best, reports the Daily Express.

A source close to the Chelsea owner said: “Roman will now sell Torres – if he can get the right offer.”

Russian side Anzhi, managed by former Chelsea caretaker boss Guus Hiddink, are ready to make a bid for the fallen star at the end of the season but Torres is understood to prefer a move back to his native Spain.

Loyal

Abramovich has stuck loyally by his most costly signing yet since the 28-year-old’s move from Liverpool in 2011 but admits it’s now time to cut his losses.

Torres has now scored just once in his last eighteen games failing to sustain the early revival shown after the appointment of former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez as interim manager in November.

He endured yet another dismal night in Chelsea’s Europa League defeat against Steaua Bucharest on Thursday.

New signing Demba Ba is now Chelsea’s first choice striker and no surprises are expected in team selection when the Blues take on Man Utd at Old Trafford in the FA Cup Sixth Round on Sunday.

Swap

A swap deal involving long-term target Falcao heading to Stamford Bridge and Torres going the other way back to his former club Atletico Madrid is believed to be on the cards.

The Daily Express claims Abramovich is willing to offload the Spaniard for as little as £15 million, a price which would result in a £35 million loss.