Fernando Torres is 'more useful' than Mario Balotelli, says AC Milan team-mate Diego Lopez

The goalkeeper believes the Italian club completed some smart transfer business

Fernando Torres watches AC Milan from the stands (GETTY IMAGES)

AC Milan have replaced Mario Balotelli with a "more useful" striker in the shape of Fernando Torres, according to Diego Lopez.

Balotelli departed the Italian giants for Liverpool in a £16m deal before Torres arrived at the San Siro on a season-long loan deal from Chelsea.

During his 18 months at AC Milan, Balotelli scored 26 goals in 43 league appearances. In comparison Torres managed just 20 in 110 Premier League outings for Chelsea following his £50m move from Liverpool.

However Torres' new team-mate, goalkeeper Diego Lopez, reckons AC Milan have concluded some clever business.

"He's a great signing," the former Real Madrid stopper told Milan Channel.

"We're talking about a player who has done amazing things, who has experience, speed, and will be important. Balotelli? Torres will be more useful as he has shown the characteristics needed to win."

Lopez never played with Balotelli, having only arrived at AC Milan this summer (GETTY IMAGES)

Balotelli is due to make his home debut this weekend when Liverpool take on Aston Villa at Anfield.