West Ham make Adriano inquiry
Adriano has fallen down the Inter Milan pecking order
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Tuesday, 28, Aug 2007 08:47
West Ham are investigating the possibility of bringing Inter Milan's Brazilian striker Adriano to Upton Park on loan.
The Hammers have made an initial approach to the San Siro giants in the hope that they may be convinced to allow the 25-year-old to come to England to regain his form and fitness.
Nerazzurri manager Roberto Manchini was unconvinced by the former Parma star's attitude at the end of last season and recruited Honduran striker David Suazo over the summer as well as extending Hernan Crespo's loan from Chelsea.
"The possible deal is in its early stages and money has not yet been discussed. We are investigating the possibility of a loan deal at this stage," West ham said in a club statement.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that he too has been alerted to Adriano's availability but has decided not to pursue a deal.
"We do not need him and it was an easy decision to make because we're not out there to sign another striker," the Frenchman said.
"The agreement was for a loan. Adriano has qualities we don't need. They wanted to give us a player but wanted one back in return."
If West Ham decide to take the gamble the move would need to be pushed to completion with some haste as the transfer window shuts again this Friday, but it would represent a coup for chairman Eggert Magnusson.
The Icelandic billionaire presided over the relegation dogfight and legal battles that followed the arrival of Argentinean duo Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano in the dying hours of last year's transfer deadline day.