LIVERPOOL HAVE SOLD Fabio Borini to Sunderland for an undisclosed fee believed to be in the region of £7 million.

The 24-year-old spent a season on loan at the Stadium of Light two years ago but on his return to Anfield, failed to force his way into Brendan Rodgers’ plans.

The Italian has signed a four-year deal with the Black Cats.

“I am delighted to be back at Sunderland,” he told the club’s official website. “It is a club I know really well from my time here previously.

“It will be emotional for me to play at the Stadium of Light again and I can’t wait to get back on the pitch as a Sunderland player.”

Head coach Dick Advocaat added: “Fabio is a great addition to the squad who will make our front line stronger.

“He can play in a number of attacking positions which is a huge benefit to the team.”

Borini endured a difficult time at Anfield having failed to become a first-team regular following his arrival from Roma in 2012.

The forward scored 10 goals in all competitions during his previous stint on Wearside.

‘It’s the start of a new era’ – Big day for Irish football as senior squad moves home

Ireland’s new striker Rooney intent on taking his chance after first day with senior set-up