Arsenal and Tottenham Face Agonising Wait Over Result of Brazilian Midfielder Chase

Brazilian midfielder Hernanes will thrust himself in the shop window at next year's World Cup finals ahead of opening talks regarding a new contract at Lazio - raising Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur's hopes of luring the 28 year old to the Premier League.

Hernanes has entered the last two years of a contract which expires in 2015 in the Italian capital having impressed since joining from Sao Paulo in 2010 but has claimed just one major trophy since securing his switch to Europe.

The former Santo Andre loanee is expected to make up part of Luiz Felipe Scolari's squad for next year's World Cup on home soil having played a part in the victorious Brazil squad at the Confederations Cup.

Despite admitting his content with life at Lazio, Hernanes' future is now shrouded in doubt having put a significant delay on opening contract talks with the Biancocelesti.

"I'm happy and satisfied at Lazio, but I'm firstly thinking about the World Cup," he told Gazzetta dello Sport. "That is what is in my head right now, then we'll see about a contract extension."

While the Brazil international appears satisfied with life in Italian football, the deferral of contract talks leaves Lazio exposed to a bid next summer after he has entered the final 12 months of his contract.

The following January transfer window could then see Hernanes agree a deal to leave on a free the following summer without requiring permission from Lazio.

The news is likely to encourage both Arsenal and Tottenham, who are both reportedly interested in the midfielder who scored 14 goals in all competitions last season including 11 in Serie A as he become the highest scoring Lazio midfielder during a single season in the club's history - surpassing Pavel Nedved.

Despite suggestions regarding their interest, Arsenal and Totteham's advances for Hernanes might be tempered by a productive summer transfer window for both north London clubs.

While Arsenal secured deals for Mathieu Flamini and Mesut Ozil, Tottenham added eight new players including Christian Eriksen, Etienne Capoue and Paulinho to add to their raft of central midfield options.

But should Hernanes be available at a cut price next summer following the World Cup, then both clubs would likely compromise in order to sign a player who is proven at the highest level in one of the high quality leagues in Europe.