Transfer news: Inter Milan 'pursuing Chelsea striker Fernando Torres'

Italians sent scout to watch the forward against Galatasaray

(Getty Images)

Inter Milan are reportedly interested in Chelsea striker Fernando Torres and sent sporting director Piero Ausilio to watch him in action against Galatasaray.

Torres did not appear until the 85th minute of the game which would have made any scouting problematic, but the Italian club are thought to strongly interested in bringing in the striker.

However Ausilio is concerned that the Spaniard's wages may prove to be too high for Inter to match, even with the fresh investment from new owner Erick Thohir.

Inter Milan manager Walter Mazzarri is reportedly very keen to improve his striking options as well as bringing in a defensive midfielder, with Chelsea's John Obi Mikel also thought to be a target.

However Aurelio was foiled in any attempts to see Mikel in action last night as well, the Nigerian failing to make an appearance off the bench.

Torres, who has two years remaining on his Chelsea contract, has never really managed to live up to his £50m transfer fee, and with Jose Mourinho actively pursuing new strikers in the summer, make welcome the opportunity to move on.

Mikel has three years remaining on his deal, but has recently slipped down the pecking order a little following the signing of Nemanja Matic.