Adriano's agent has revealed that Chelsea attempted to sign his client during the January transfer window.

The Inter Milan striker was strongly linked with the Blues on numerous occasions, but it was Tottenham who appeared to be leading the race for his signature.

However, the Brazilian's representative has confirmed that discussions were held regarding a possible switch to Stamford Bridge.

Former Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari, who was sacked on Monday, had made no secret of his desire to bolster his attacking options.

He was able to bring in Portuguese winger Ricardo Quaresma on loan from Inter, but ultimately failed in his efforts to land his countryman Adriano.

"He (Scolari) really wanted Adriano, we spoke about him many times," Gilmar Rinaldi told Radio Kiss Kiss.

"But overall he spoke with Marco Branca (Inter Milan sporting director) and in the end they decided together that they would allow Adriano to remain at Inter.

"It is the ideal place for him to return to and express his best performances."