Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

Sunderland have been linked with Italian coach Francesco Farioli – who recently left his role at Turkish Super League club Alanyaspor.

It was reported earlier this month that Farioli, who has been out of work since February, had held talks with Watford about succeeding current head coach Chris Wilder.

Now journalist Fabrizio Romano has tweeted: “Sunderland appreciate Francesco Farioli as new head coach for the next season, he’s on top of their list. #SAFC

“Farioli, considered talented coach — he’s only 34 years old and clubs in Italy, Portugal [including Braga], England and Turkey have approached him.”

Phil Smith's Sunderland player rating photos after West Brom win - including one...

Farioli has previously worked with Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi when the former was a goalkeeper coach at Italian clubs Benevento and Sassuolo.

After a spell at Turkish side Fatih Karagumruk in 2021, Farioli was appointed Alanyaspor’s head coach later that year.

The Athletic have reported Farioli ‘is in the process of travelling around Europe and the UK to watch a number of games and visit connections.’

Sunderland linked with left-field interest in coach Francesco Farioli amid Watford ‘talks'