EMANUELE GIACCHERINI struggled to make an impact at Sunderland but he has clubs queueing up for his services in Italy.

Despite revealing at the beginning of the week that he would be keen to stay with Bologna, where he has been on loan all season, Giaccherini now has stronger options.

Sunderland are looking to talk to clubs willing to reach a deal that suits all parties on the remaining year of his contract, which he signed when he moved in a £6.5m deal three years ago.

The Black Cats, knowing how his performances in Serie A have earned him a Euro 2016 place with Italy, hope to recoup money back for the 30-year-old, although are also happy to offload his wages.

That means Giaccherini is likely to be available on the cheap, although Sunderland also know the likes of Fiorentina and Torino will not want to match the wages he is receiving on Wearside.

His agent Furio Valcareggi said: “I can say that something is being done, but not by Bologna. Fiorentina and Torino are interested in the man, that’s for sure. They are certainly on his trail.

“Of course we are grateful to the club, but we will have to make the choice that allows Giaccherini to take his football career as high as possible.

“Bologna certainly have our recognition, but for us, they are an option like others, as he is a well-known player.

“We are very calm, because we know we already have at least two to three major alternatives, thanks to the excellent performances made by Emanuele on the pitch. In any case, any clubs who are interested in him will have to make contact with Sunderland.”

Giaccherini has been a mainstay of the Italy squad under Antonio Conte, who will take over Chelsea after the Euros, despite his frustrating time at Sunderland. He was also an integral part of the Juventus team before moving to the Premier League.