Everton are close to beating Chelsea and West Ham United to the signature of Brazilian winger Bernard.
The wide-man is a free agent following the end of his contract at Shakhtar Donetsk and his agents have been holding talks with a number of clubs.
Chelsea and West Ham have been keen on Bernard, while AC Milan have been looking to take him to Italy.
But Everton, thanks to Richarlison's agent, who has been mediating, have overtaken the opposition and are vastly closing in on Bernard's signature, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato.it.
The Toffees have put a five-year contract in front of Bernard and, unless one of his other suitors make a fresh offer soon, will sign him on a free transfer.
Everton are pressing the accelerator on their transfer business with the Premier League window due to close on Thursday.
Bernard could move outside the transfer window system though due to his status as a free agent.
The winger made 157 appearances for Shakhtar Donetsk.
