Chelsea transfer news: Emanuele Giaccherini 'would fly' to become first Antonio Conte signing

Sunderland's Emanuele Giaccherini remains keen on a move to Chelsea should Antonio Conte wish to make the Italy international his first signing at Stamford Bridge. The 31-year-old has been among the most impressive performers for the Azzuri on their run to the quarter-finals at the European Championships, where they face Germany for a place in the last four.

Giaccherini has been a key part of Italy's success in France, on the right-hand side of a team whose pressing game has yet to be tamed during their progression to the last eight. His performances have been in stark contrast to his stalling club career, which last term saw him loaned to Bologna, where he scored seven goals in 28 appearances.

But amid an encouraging revival during Euro 2016, Giaccherini's agent has attempted on several occasions to talk up the chances of his client moving to Chelsea to link up again with Conte. Excelling with the Italy national team, Giaccherini also played under the incoming Blues boss while the pair were at Juventus – and agent Furio Valcareggi says they could be reunited.

"There's Torino and Bologna, but also some teams abroad," Valcareggi told Lady Radio, according to Football Italia. "We're available to [Fiorentina sporting director Pantaleo] Corvino, but he hasn't called me yet. I'd like to see him here, no doubt, but there are other situations in play now. This is probably the high point of Giaccherini's career. If Conte calls then we'll fly to Chelsea."

The comments represent the second time the agent has indicated Giaccherini would be keen on a move to Chelsea. It could yet be a deal that Conte may consider, if he believes the attacking midfielder can replicate his international showings in the Premier League – where he has so far struggled to impress.

Chelsea supporters will be hoping the style of football Conte has successfully implemented at Euro 2016 can be repeated upon his arrival in west London. But Giaccherini warns the current squad they will be required to rigorously prepare for matches – just like the Italy team did for the 2-0 win over Spain.

"We prepared for this game in the tiniest details throughout the week and the coach gave us the right indications to beat what I think is one of the best teams in the world," Giaccherini told Sky Sport Italia, according to Goal.com. "We legitimised the victory with many chances that we wasted, so it should have been more than 2-0."