Torres focused on Liverpool - Benitez

Rafa Benitez insists Fernando Torres is happy at Liverpool after the striker was linked with a big-money move to Premier League…

Rafa Benitez insists Fernando Torres is happy at Liverpool after the striker was linked with a big-money move to Premier League rivals Manchester City.

Reports on Thursday had claimed that City were lining up a bid in excess of €58 million for Torres in the summer as Roberto Mancini looks to improve his squad.

Mancini acknowledged his admiration for the Spain international and stated every club in Europe would be interested in Torres, but confirmed any transfer talks would be on hold until the end of the season.

However, speaking after Liverpool's 1-0 defeat by Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final, Benitez played down talk the 26-year-old could be sold.

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"Torres is happy," stressed Benitez. "The thing he's thinking about now is being ready as soon as possible and that's it.

"From the beginning he's said he's been very happy at Anfield."

Mancini's comments provoked a scathing response from Benitez, who added: "We have said repeatedly that Fernando is not for sale and he still has three years of his contract remaining. So how can they sign a player who does not wish to leave? Fernando is happy at Liverpool so I don't see a problem."

Torres is sitting out the remainder of the club season after undergoing a knee operation and his presence was missed against Atletico.

David Ngog started up front against the Spaniards, but Liverpool failed to have a shot on target and Benitez lamented his lack of attacking options.

He added: "On this occasion it's true both teams had opportunities to score, and Atletico had opportunities to get a second goal.

"I would love to have had more strikers, but I didn't have Torres this time."