Liverpool Transfer News: Shakhtar Star Bernard Offered in Roma, Inter Rumours

Shakhtar Donetsk winger Bernard could shun rumoured interest from Liverpool and move to Serie A following reports the Brazilian has been "offering his services" to a host of Italian clubs, including AS Roma and Inter Milan.

Bernard's contract at the Metalist Stadium is due to expire at the end of this season, and Daniele Longo of Calciomercato.com reported the player's representation is already in talks with Roma.

It may be a worrying sign for the Reds that Bernard is reportedly shopping himself around Italy, with no signs apparent that he's given the same notice to his suitors in England.

Liverpool and Arsenal have been linked with the winger in the past and are still rumoured among his suitors, although Calciomercato's Isak Moller recently said AC Milan have made progress in their hopes to sign the player:

Any links between Bernard and the Reds will stem from his ability to feature on the left flank, a position which at first appeared to be diminished by Philippe Coutinho's January move to Barcelona.

But Sadio Mane's transition to that area, combined with Roberto Firmino's ongoing adaption as a centre-forward figure, has meant Coutinho's absence hasn't been all that noticeable.

Bernard scored three goals in eight UEFA Champions League outings this term and netted 10 times in all competitions, a career-best since moving to Europe, which is encouraging for a player who's set to be available for free.

Firmino commented on Liverpool's need to adapt in the post-Coutinho age, which they have and then some after making it to the Champions League semi-finals and lighting up the Premier League, per James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo:

However, the hotter climate of Italy can often seem so much more appealing to top talents, and after five years in Ukraine, a stint in Serie A may be exactly what Bernard's after.

The Shakhtar ace is similar to Coutinho in that he's not a strict hugger of the touchline and can come back as well as feature infield, not to mention the fact he's three inches shorter than his compatriot, standing only 5'5".

What Bernard lacks in height he makes up for in dribbling ability and the inevitable allure of a free agent, although Liverpool may struggle to turn the player's head if he's focused on a move to Italy next.