Sampdoria sporting director Beppe Marotta has stated his interest for Brazilian ace Adriano to join their ranks.

Speaking to Corriere dello Sport, he said: "We are pleased with our squad at present; however, we are missing some important pieces, which hopefully we can fix in time.

"Our preferred policy is youth, but we also need to focus on filling the holes in our line-up.

"Adriano? He would be a player who could do exactly this."

Adriano who plays for Brazilian side Flamengo, used to ply his trade in Italy, namely Inter Milan.

Prolific in front of goal, the 27-year-old has scored seven goals in nine appearances for Flamengo since he joined the club in May.

"It's a pity that he has decided to remain in Brazil for now, but we would certainly consider taking him on if he were to return to Italy," Marotta added.