Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres has welcomed fresh interest from the Premiership.

Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool are all waiting for this weekend's last round of Liga games in Spain before launching a bid to prise Torres away from Atletico.

"It's a good sign," said Torres, responding to the press speculation. "The troubling thing will be the year when no-one comes in for me. While important clubs continue to be interested, it means I am continuing to improve."

Asked if his future at Atletico depends on them qualifying for the UEFA Cup, Torres replied: "I've been here for five years and my continuity has never before been based on qualifying for Europe. Today, I am here and think only about my club."