Who will sell Fernando Torres his new hideaway?

Local property values have spiralled since Chelsea switched its training pitch from next to a Heathrow runway to a purpose-built complex alongside Cobham railway station.

Former manager Jose Mourinho issued an edict that players live within four miles of their workplace. John Terry led the way with a £3 million mansion on Oxshott’s Crown Estate. Before their acrimonious split, Ashley and Cheryl Cole paid £6 million for a nearby house, while Frank Lampard recently forked out £5 million for a local mansion.

Cobham, together with its satellites Oxshott and Esher, is considered a jewel in Surrey’s property crown. Elmbridge, the local parish, has even been named Britain’s “best place to live” in a Halifax survey.

Developers continue to cash in on the buying power of Premiership players, but the area has always been a favourite for bankers, diplomats, lawyers and corporate executives.

In the 1960s it was the stockbroker belt and in the 1970s it became the “Rockbroker” belt. Now they call it “Superbia”. Apart from Chelsea players and the Linekers, other celeb residents include Chris Tarrant, Theo Paphitis, Andy Murray and Max Clifford.

Mr Torres can choose one of several gated modern mansions currently on the market, including Broomfield Ride, a neo-Georgian pile with seven bedrooms, five reception rooms, six bathrooms, a sweeping drive for the 4x4 plus an indoor swimming pool and spa - price, £4,950,000. Call 0843 4695009.

Penthouses and new townhouses are for sale at the swish Princess Square development in Esher. Prices from £1,700,000. Call Royalton on 01372 460860.