Hammers' Adriano hopes in tatters

Published Dec. 16, 2009 2:55 a.m. ET

foxsports

West Ham's hopes of landing Brazil international striker Adriano during the January transfer window look to have been dashed.

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola is keen to improve his forward options with the Upton Park club struggling at the wrong end of the Premier League table.

Tuesday night's 3-1 defeat by Bolton at the Reebok Stadium left West Ham marooned in the drop zone and two points from safety.

Off-field speculation over their future continues with reports that former Birmingham co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold are planning to make a £50million bid.

Adriano had emerged as a possible transfer target, with the former Inter Milan forward's agent admitting a number of clubs in Europe were keen on his services.

But the powerful striker, who recently helped Flamengo claim the Brazilian championship, looks set to remain in his homeland.

Team-mate Ronaldo Angelim said: "I have spoken to Adriano and he has assured me he will continue with Flamengo here in Brazil."