Fernando Torres was worth £70m says Rafael Benitez

Benitez signed Torres while Liverpol manager (GETTY IMAGES)

Rafael Benitez has claimed Liverpool could have sold Fernando Torres for £70million during his time in charge.

The Spaniard, who left Inter Milan in December, also revealed he would like to return to Anfield in the future.

Torres completed a £50m switch to Chelsea on transfer deadline day.

"I think last year we were talking about £70m," Benitez said in an interview with the BBC's Football Focus.

"People were talking about maybe you will receive an offer from another club, they were talking about £70million.

"Torres was not playing at the same level the last time, but he is still a very good player. It's big money but could be even better."

Benitez, who left Liverpool in June, lasted only six months at the San Siro and fancies another stint in the Anfield hotseat.

"Always to be manager of Liverpool is a dream," he added. "At this time I know that Kenny is doing really well so I have to wait and just keep watching games and that's it.

"But if you say to me in the future you would like to be manager, for sure, (there is) no doubt about this. When is the question but I have to move forward anyway."