Brazilian Starlet to Reject Arsenal as Hulk Recommends Porto Move

Arsenal appear to have missed out on signing Atletico Miniero star Bernard after the midfielder's agent claimed that he is now likely to join Portuguese champions Porto.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger had denied stories that the Brazil international was set to have a medical at the club but Bernard's agent announced that there was genuine interest from the north London club.

The 20 year old helped Miniero recover from a 2-0 first leg deficit to win the Copa Libertadores last week and is now set to make the move to Europe after a number of clubs made him aware of their interest.

Bernard's father spoke to Portuguese publication O Jogo and revealed Arsenal's interest but made it clear that Porto was a more likely option after being recommended by Brazil teammate Hulk.

"Nothing is decided yet, but we know there is an interest from Arsenal," he said. "There has been nothing official from them. Hulk has convinced Bernard that Porto move would be better for him at this stage of his career. Porto would be a better move for his career."

While Arsenal can match Porto in offering Champions League football next season, Portugal has often been the preferred choice for young Brazilians who can speak their native language and easily settle into a similar culture.

It also appears that Bernard would reject a move to Ukrainian champions Shaktar Donetsk in favour of Porto.

"I can confirm that is the strongest possibility, but Shakhtar are interested too. He should join one of the two clubs," revealed agent Adriano Spadotto to Mais Futebol.

"If it is up to me, Bernard will be a Porto player. As I have said, this would be the best solution for him. He would prefer to join a middling, but good, club in Europe rather than risk joining an elite club and not getting the chance to play. Bernard has great interest in going to Porto."

Arsenal have had a frustrating summer in the transfer market, only completing one deal in bringing young French striker Yaya Sanogo to the club, while seeing two bids for Liverpool's Luis Suarez hastily rejected.