Sunderland chief Lee Congerton is happy to keep hold of Ricky Alvarez.

Despite the Argentine's battle with injury this season, his on-field form has convinced Sunderland management to extend his stay.

Alvarez is on-loan at Sunderland from Inter Milan and can be signed permanently for €8.5 million.

Congerton is unhappy with the price, given Alvarez's injury problems this season, and has scheduled a meeting with Inter this week in an attempt to negotiate new terms, says TMW.

Sunderland are hopeful of settling on a fee closer to €7 million.