By Richard Clarke
Arsène Wenger has revealed he turned down the opportunity to
take Adriano on loan.
The Brazilian striker has a wonderful scoring record, hitting 43 in
99 games during his second spell with Inter and 25 in 37 matches
for his country. Reportedly, the 25-year-old is considered surplus
to requirements at the San Siro at the moment and has been linked
in the British media with a transfer to West Ham. The Arsenal
manager ruled out a move because he feels he has enough ability up
front but also the deal had strings attached.
"I've been offered Adriano on loan and I said no,"
said the Arsenal manager. "We do not need him and it was an
easy decision to make because we're not out there to take a
striker on loan.
"The agreement was for a loan. They wanted to give us a
player but wanted one back in return. I won't say who it was
but I did not want to lose the player they wanted. I didn't
necessarily think Adriano would upset the balance of the squad but
he has qualities we don't need.
"I bought in [strikers] Eduardo and Bendtner. I already had
Adebayor and Van Persie plus I still have Walcott and Diaby who can
play through the middle. Why should I bring more players in? I have
big faith in my squad and they're proving me right at the
moment."
