Spouse visa

I have searched the forum and the government website and feel very confused with my current situation and would appreciate some expert halp.

I have been with my boyfriend (who is Albanian) since 2007. I met him whilst living in Italy. I returned back to England in 2009 and we have been sustaining a long distance relationship whilst he finished univeristy. He was, and still is, living in Italy on a residence permit. He has also had 4 UK visitor Visas during the last 5 years. In each visa application I have been his sponsor.

Now that my boyfriend has finished his studies, he now wants to come and live with me and get a job in the UK. He has been applying for jobs but hasn't had any luck so far as he would need to be sponsored. I have my own house and earn £35,000 per year.

My question is which Visa to apply for. We were thinking the Join Family living in the UK visa however one of the criteria is that we have lived together for 2 years ,which we haven't.

Any reccomendations regarding which route to take would be grately appreciated.

What is the route to citizenship he can take in Italy?

Alternatively, get married and then apply for spouse leave to enter.