Everton are in the final stages of securing a swoop for Brazilian international winger Bernard as he undertakes a medical today (Tuesday, 7 August) ahead of his move as a free agent, according to Foot Mercato.
The French football news website claim on their live transfer blog (07/08, 17:24) that the 14-cap attacker, who stands at a diminutive 5’3″ (source: Transfermarkt) is on Merseyside to undergo the necessary tests, having left Shakhtar Donetsk at the end of his contract this summer.
It is stated that Everton have blown Premier League rivals West Ham away in the hunt for the 25-year-old by offering a deal double what the Irons were willing to table, and he could become the third signing of the summer for Marco Silva.
Good move for Everton?
Bernard was one of the most exciting young talents on the scene a couple of years ago but his move to Shakhtar has sort of taken the spotlight off him, as well as limiting his opportunities for Brazil.
Everton could do with his creative flair and talent to get the best out of the likes of Cenk Tosun up top, and with Richarlison having already arrived from Watford, it gives Silva plenty of options over the upcoming season.
As for the Brazilian, he will be desperate to prove his worth to the national selectors and force his way back into the reckoning on the international stage, and so he will be doing everything to put in the very best performances possible in England’s top flight.
The only issue could be value for money – have the Toffees overspent on his contract simply because he was a free agent?
This is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Considering a medical is being reported, this one seems all but done, although fans best heed the warning of Merseyside rivals Liverpool and the saga involving Nabil Fekir earlier this summer.
It looks to be completed imminently, and not soon enough with the Premier League season just days away.
This is Futbol rating: 9/10