Torres has caught the eye this term, having played a key role in helping Villarreal book a place in the semi-finals of the Champions League, following a season in which he won the Europa League with the Spaniards.

 

Premier League giants Manchester United have been long-term admirers of the centre-back and have identified him as a potential target in the summer as they look for a major squad overhaul, with Erik ten Hag tipped to take over as manager.

 

 

However, the Red Devils are not only English top flight club keen on snapping up Torres as newly rich Newcastle also have him in their sights.

 

The Magpies have already started planning their recruitment strategy for the forthcoming window and centre-back is a key position that they want to bolster.

 

 

And Newcastle have added the Villarreal man to their transfer wish list, which also includes the likes of Nico Schlotterbeck and Sven Botman.

 

The Spaniard has a £50m release clause in his current deal at Villarreal, where he is contracted until the summer of 2024.

 

 

It remains to be seen whether Newcastle or Manchester United will try to trigger Torres’ release clause in the forthcoming window.