SHARE

West Ham have been very active in the transfer market so far but their plans to bolster their attacking ranks have hit a hitch.

The Hammers have been reported to be interested in the services of Brazil international Bernard, available on a free transfer when his contract with Shakhtar Donetsk expires this weekend, but could now miss out on his services.

Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla has reported on his official website that Bernard has rejected the opportunity to move to the Premier League and looks set to earn a bumper pay-day in China.

The 25-year-old was a target for Pellegrini during his time with Hebei China Fortune and the former Manchester City boss expressed a desire to bring the South American to the London Stadium.

However, fighting with the finances on offer in China is a difficult task for West Ham and they will now be forced to look at alternative targets – although there is a positive as a move for Felipe Anderson is poised to be completed.