Everton are reportedly on the verge of signing former Shakhtar Donetsk winger Bernard, who is also a summer target for Chelsea
According to a report by Daily Mirror, Everton are set to complete the signing of Bernard on five-year deal before the August 9 transfer deadline. The Brazilian winger is a free agent after running down his contract with Shakhtar Donetsk, and was also a target for Chelsea in this summer’s transfer window.
Bernard enjoyed a stellar five-year stint with Shakhtar Donetsk, during which he was one of their key players. 28 goals and 35 assists in 157 appearances isn’t an inspiring return. But, the Brazilian has been a highly sought-after figure in the transfer market this summer after running down his contract with the Ukrainian giants.
For a long time, Chelsea were believed to the front-runners in the race to sign the 25-year-old, with the likes of Inter Milan and West Ham United also interested. But, Everton look set to triumph in pursuit of Bernard, after beating stiff competition for him.
At Everton, Marco Silva does have a number of wingers at his disposal, with Richarlison being the latest attacking recruitment for his squad. Yannick Bolasie and Theo Walcott are quality options for the Toffees as well. But, the former has been linked with a return to Crystal Palace, which opens up a slot for Bernard in Silva’s squad.
Chelsea, on the other hand, have also been in need of attacking reinforcement, even though Willian and Eden Hazard look set to remain at Stamford Bridge. Beyond the duo though, Pedro is the only player who can provide a pacy outlet in the wide areas, making Bernard a viable target ahead of a potentially long campaign with UEFA Europa League commitments.
But, Chelsea will have to look elsewhere in search of attacking reinforcements in the final days of the transfer window as Everton are set to sign Bernard on a five-year deal. The Toffees were in negotiations with Kia Joorabchian, the player’s agent, who zeroed in on the Merseyside club even though West Ham were offering better terms.
Everton have picked up the pace in the final month of the transfer window, and how. With just two days left for English clubs to finalise their transfers, it looks like some more South American flair is on its way to Goodison Park, in the form of Bernard and Yerry Mina, another player set to join the Toffees. Chelsea though, do not have long to bolster their attack.
