The Romanian put his career back on track at Inverness last season and forced his way into his country's squad for Euro 2008.

He has been linked with a return to former club Sporting Lisbon, but recently admitted he would be happy to see out the final year of his Caley Thistle contract.

However, Italian club Torino have confirmed an interest in Niculae and hope to tempt the forward to Serie A next season.

"Niculae is a target for us this summer as we look to strengthen our attacking options," said Torino president Urbano Cairo in the Daily Record.

"I think we are a club that the player himself would be interested in joining.

"I plan to speak with his club and then after the European Championship we hope the situation will be a lot clearer."