Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri is set to strengthen his Blues squad further with the acquisition of former Shakhtar Donestk attacker Bernard on a free transfer.

The diminutive Brazilian’s contract expired with the Ukrainian giants this summer and the 25-year-old is about to undergo talks with the Stamford Bridge club, according to Globeosporte.

Reportedly, Monaco, Leicester City and West Ham are also in the running to secure his signature but Bernard is thought to favour a move to west London.

Last season, the former Atletico Mineiro star netted 10 times and laid on countless assists – which is evidence to suggest he is a more than a capable and cheaper option to that of Russia World Cup star Aleksandr Golovin.