LIVERPOOL last night turned down a stunning transfer request from Fernando Torres.
The Anfield outfit also [flash=200,200]http://threatened to report Chelsea to the Premier League for allegedly "tapping up"[/flash] the Spanish striker.
They claim Blues went to Torres and his agents to set up a deal before making their £40million bid. Yesterday's high drama also saw:
# Liverpool snub a new offer of £42.5m plus hitman Daniel Sturridge.
# Torres tell Liverpool that he wants a transfer - only for the club to reject his request.
# Kop sources admit a £50m cash offer may change their mind.
# Hitman Luis Suarez join the Reds for £23m from Dutch outfit Ajax.
Liverpool believe that Chelsea have done an 'Ashley Cole' by speaking to the Torres camp without permission.
A senior Anfield source said: "It's clear Fernando has had his head turned and Chelsea have 'previous' for that sort of thing, don't they?
"Ashley Cole springs to mind and it looks like they've been at it again here."
SunSport can reveal Chelsea increased their offer for Torres by £2½m yesterday and threw Sturridge, 21, into the mix.
And Chelsea intend to keep up the pressure, with a Blues insider saying: "Liverpool don't want to sell but a lot depends on the player's wishes."
There is also a belief that Liverpool's stand could also be swayed if Chelsea up their offer to £50m.
Spanish hitman Torres, 26, has told the club he wants to join Chelsea, who are offering £200,000-a-week.
A pal of Torres said: "He believes it's the best thing for himself and Liverpool. He wants to be part of a team capable of competing at the highest level."
Liverpool have worked tirelessly to persuade Torres to stay since Chelsea's initial £40m bid.