Tough task for Liverpool to keep Fernando Torres

Liverpool is faced with a tough task of preventing ace striker Fernando Torres from leaving the club in the biggest transfer scramble, as Juventus has also urged coach Rafa Benitez to make up his mind on whether he will become their new boss.

Manchester City and Chelsea will lead the £ 70 million summer transfer for Torres, who is concerned at Liverpool's dismal performance and inability to compete for titles.

"A club like Liverpool must do everything they can to keep players like Stevie Gerrard and Fernando, but a lot of things can change and in a few weeks we will know better," said Liverpool player Yossi Benayoun.

Benitez this week meets Anfield chairman Martin Broughton for talks, with Juventus president Andrea Agnelli seeking an answer, the Daily Express reports.

Agnelli could turn to Fiorentina's Cesare Prandelli if he feels Benitez is using them.

A Juventus source said: "The new president is less keen on Benitez, especially because he has strung the situation out for so long. He expects a decision this week so he can get on with planning for the future."

Benitez could deny Juventus' offer if he is given guarantees that he can reinvest any money raised from outgoings this summer.