WEST Ham manager Alan Curbishley spent his free weekend in Italy scouting new talent and catching up with new technical director Gianluca Nani.

The Irons boss took in three matches during his time away, including a goalless draw between Nani's Brescia and Bari.

In between, Curbishley spent time discussing the Hammers' future plans and transfer targets with Nani, who will take over his new role at Upton Park in June.

"I went out there because obviously we need to have dialogue," explained Curbishley, ignoring weekend reports that he was not happy with Nani's appointment.

"The opportunity arose so I saw three games in all in the time I was out there.

"I went out there Friday and came back Sunday morning and was here for training.

"It's an easy situation to get on with and we're obviously having dialogue all the time - but it's much easier face to face."

Nani's influence is already being felt at the Boleyn Ground, with the Irons reportedly making an inquiry over the possibility of signing Brescia right-back Marco Zambelli.

And Curbishley admitted the pair had already begun to target summer signings.

"We discussed a lot of things. I got to see players who could be on our shopping list," he added.

"I was looking at a couple of games, but the main purpose was to have some dialogue.

"Nani came over last week as well to watch the reserve team game and came to the training ground and met everybody so it's obviously an ongoing situation."