West Ham manager Alan Curbishley played down talk of a move for Inter Milan's Adriano even though the club said they were interested in signing the striker.
Adriano, 25, has also been linked with Manchester City, while Serie A side Lazio have also stated their interest in landing the Brazilian.
A statement by the Hammers said: "We are investigating the possibility of a loan deal at this stage."
But Curbishley said: "I don't know too much about it to be fair.
"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 has slipped down the pecking order at Inter and fellow Serie A side Lazio would take him depending on his attitude.
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.
606: DEBATE
"Adriano is an important player," said Lazio coach Delio Rossi. "I wish he would come to Lazio. But, if he comes, he should come with the right spirit."
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed he rejected a chance to take Adriano on loan.
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."
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