Chelsea have set released Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Bernard a deadline to accept their offer.

Bernard is available on a free transfer after his contract expired last month.

He has received a proposal from Chelsea but they face competition from AC Milan.

Andersinho Marques, who works as a journalist for Italian broadcaster Premium Sport, wrote on Twitter: “The player and the agent are very optimistic for the arrival at # Milan, waiting only for a reply from (sporting director) Leonardo.

“It is the dream of the player and his father since he was a child.

“The Chelsea set its ultimatum Tuesday.

“There is no Inter offer."