Reported Arsenal target Bernard refuses to discuss future until after the World Cup

Bernard during a Brazil National Team press conference

Brazilian striker Bernard refused to discuss his future until after his World Cup campaign this summer, with Premier League clubs all believed to be interested in bringing him to England ahead of the new season.

Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal have been linked with a bid for Bernard after it emerged that was unsettled at Shakhtar Donetsk, after domestic unrest throughout Ukraine in recent months has caused him to worry about his safety in the country.

The Brazilian international has refused to rule out a move away from Shakhtar once the World Cup has ended, but has suggested that he will be leaving that to his management team, as he wants to focus solely on the summer showpiece in his home country.

Bernard told reporters, “I’ve made it clear since I arrived (to join the national team) that I won’t comment about the possibility of a transfer, as I am focused on the World Cup.

“It’s a unique moment in the career of a player. I want to mature and learn a lot here with my more experienced team-mates.

“I leave my off-field situation to be handled by those who have the right to do so without me. I don’t know what will happen after the World Cup, I have people to handle the off-field stuff.”