Shakhtar Donetsk forward Bernard has rejected the chance to join West Ham on a free transfer in favour of a lucrative move to China, according to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla.
Pedulla claims on his personal website that West Ham tabled a big contract offer for Bernard, and the electric Brazilian had initially seemed keen on a move to the London Stadium.
The journalist however reports that the 25-year-old has changed his mind and is now considering a move to China, where he would be in line for a huge deal.
Good move for West Ham?
Absolutely.
Bernard has long been rated as a huge talent, and while he has not necessarily lived up to that reputation quite yet, there is much to suggest that he could be a success in England.
His searing pace is an asset in any league, and his dangerous play down the wings could be exactly what West Ham need to revamp their attack for next season.
The fact that he is available on a free transfer makes this one a no-brainer for the Hammers, and it is no surprise that they tabled an offer to bring him the 5ft 4in star in this summer [Transfermarkt].
Forever West Ham rating: 9/10
Likely to happen?
Unfortunately it looks like Bernard will opt to head to China.
It had looked like the Brazilian was interested in a move to the London Stadium, as many would be to work under Manuel Pellegrini, but the riches of the Chinese Super League look to have turned his head.
For many players the opportunity to go to China is a once-in-a-lifetime money-making venture, and for that you cannot blame him, but a move to West Ham would surely have been the better footballing move.
Anyhow, it is not a massive loss for the club, but it would have been a nice bonus in an important summer window.
Forever West Ham rating: 2/10
