Shakhtar Donetsk ace Bernard is reportedly set to leave this summer.
According to Brazilian newspaper Globo Esporte, Shakhtar Donetsk playmaker Bernard has decided to move on when his contract expires this summer – and is in talks with English clubs.
Bernard, 25, was one of the most in-demand players around in 2013, having thrived in his native Brazil with Atletico Mineiro, but it was Shakhtar who won the race for his signature.
The diminutive midfielder, who stands at just 5ft 5in tall, has been a regular for Shakhtar since that move, hitting 28 goals in 156 games – but a summer move now appears to be on the cards.
It’s claimed that, with his contract set to expire this summer, Bernard has decided it’s time to move on, and will join another club on a free transfer at the end of the season.
England-bound?
Bernard is allegedly in talks with clubs in England, China and Italy, or could head back to Brazil, though the prospect of him heading to the Premier League is certainly interesting.
Given that Tottenham may be in the market for another diminutive playmaker to offer competition for Christian Eriksen, a bargain move to land Bernard – who was a Tottenham target in 2013 – could make sense for Daniel Levy and co.
Another potential destination could be Everton, given that the Daily Mail report that the Toffees want to land Shakhtar boss Paulo Fonseca this summer, and following him to Goodison Park could make sense on a free transfer.
Questions will be asked about Bernard’s suitability for the Premier League given his size, but signing the Brazilian international on a free transfer should be appealing for many top flight clubs – and the race is now on for his signature.
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