Former Sunderland chief Roberto de Fanti has revealed they could've signed Italy duo Graziano Pelle and Eder.

De Fanti, discussing former Sunderland scout Massimo Mirabelli's imminent appointment as new AC Milan sports director, revealed his protege championed both strikers during their time on Wearside.

He told TMW: "I've thought more than once this summer, when after the initial exploits at the Euros of Italy the names of Pellè and Eder were on everyone's lips.

"I mean at that time the former had never had a real chance in the major leagues in Europe, despite his form in the Eredivisie, while the current Inter striker was not at all considered by the top clubs at the continental level, he was almost a 'refused luxury'.

"Well, Mirabelli proposed forcefully his willingness to take risks and take the pair. The transfers did not go through for various reasons, or the presence in the team of players like Steven Fletcher who already covered the same role, but I can only say precisely the merit of Mirabelli's scouting when no one believed us."