Bernard battle for Tottenham

Tottenham Hotspur have sent a scout to watch Brazilian winger Bernard at the Confederations Cup.

The 20-year-old is expected to move to Europe this summer and Spurs are believed to have dispatched a representative to follow his progress, according to Brazilian media.

Bernard (above, right) has been capped three times for Brazil, including in their recent friendly against England, but is not a regular starter for the national side.

Atletico Mineiro are reportedly asking for €20million for the youngster, with Borussia Dortmund Spurs’ main competition for his signature.

However, Dortmund have apparently only offered €12million (£10.2m) so far, while Spurs have offered €16million (£13.6m), and there are suggestions Atletico would be prepared to agree to a deal at €18millon (£15.3m).

Dortmund are hoping to sign Bernard as a replacement for Mario Gotze, who will complete his transfer to their Bundesliga rivals Bayern Munich this summer.

Bernard has apparently expressed a preference to move to the Premier League rather than Germany, although Bayern Munich defender Dante recently said he had tried to change the youngster’s mind.

Spurs could use the left-winger to free up Gareth Bale to move into the middle of their formation, although Bernard might also be viewed as a replacement for the Welshman, who has been linked with a world-record £85milion move to Real Madrid this summer.