Curbishley cool on Adriano move

West Ham manager Alan Curbishley played down talk of a move for Inter Milan Adriano despite an earlier statement from the London club on the issue.

A statement by the Hammers said: "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."

But Curbishley, speaking after his side's Carling Cup win at Bristol Rovers, said: "I don't know too much about it to be fair."

He added: "I don't know if it is talk to stir things up, if you like, we will have to see. I just think it is something that has cropped up.

"Is it speculation or is there something in it? I don't know."

Adriano, 25, has slipped down the pecking order at Inter and Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed he rejected a chance to take him on loan.

The Brazilian has scored 25 goals in 37 games for his country but has suffered a loss of form amid a succession of injuries and doubts over his commitment.

Part of Wenger's refusal to do business with Inter was because they wanted an unnamed Arsenal player on loan as part of the deal.

But the Gunners boss says he feels that area of his squad is strong enough, explaining: "We do not need him and it was an easy decision to make because we're not out there to sign another striker.

"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.

"I won't say who it was. I didn't want to lose the player they requested. I didn't necessarily think Adriano would upset the balance of the squad.

"I have bought Eduardo Da Silva. I already had Emmanuel Adebayor and Robin van Persie and I brought Nicklas Bendtner back.

"I still have Theo Walcott and Abou Diaby can play through the middle. Why should I bring more forwards in?

"I have big faith in my squad and they've proved me right so far this season."