£8m Alexandro Bernabei tells the world what he wants as Celtic misfit stands 180 minutes from transfer scramble
Wanted man Alexandro Bernabei is 180 minutes away from sparking an almighty transfer scramble as Celtic sit primed and ready to cash in on his stunning form in Brazil.
The left-back was lampooned for 18 error-strewn months in Glasgow, however, he has come alive in Serie A with Internacional and has been a key man for a side who were eliminated from title contention with only two games to go. But Bernabei – who has two-and-a-half years remaining on his Celtic deal – is reportedly valued at £8million after his exploits back in South America with Cruzeiro keen but the suitor list is expected to grow. He will head back to Glasgow as a decision looms over what comes next.
His stunning cross against Flamengo was the latest highlight for a player who has caused such a stir there has even been clamour to cap the Argentine for the Selecao, revealed by South American expert Tim Vickery. Football is packed with redemption stories but Bernabei – who spent seven months with Brendan Rodgers before his temporary exit – appears a long shot to dislodge Greg Taylor, who is yet to sign a new deal, and loanee Alex Valle as the first-team left-back options at Parkhead.
However, the 24-year-old – who cut a confused figure for long spells in Glasgow – is utterly convinced he can use his head-turning stint with Internacional to propel him to greater heights. Speaking last month, Bernabei said: "We are an incredible team - World Cup holders and Copa America champions - so of course I know it will be incredibly difficult for me to be called up for the squad. "But nobody tells me that I can't aim for that. I certainly hope with my recent form that it will be my turn soon.
"It is a dream that I have pending and I am going to work as hard as possible for myself. If it happens, it happens. I think that in Brazil and Argentina, there are very good full-backs. It's said that Brazil is a country of full backs so being praised is important for me. Here in Brazil I am playing every three days or so and that's a real challenge and it is very demanding. But I am very happy with my form."