SC Internacional are working on retaining Celtic’s Alexandro Bernabei, after signing him on loan from Brendan Rodgers’ side back in March.
The left-back played 23 games for the Brazilian club, who have an option to make his stay permanent.
On Friday, Internacional president Alessandro Barcellos revealed negotiations with Celtic.
Internacional vice-president José Olavo Bisol was asked about the 24-year-old and Revista Colorada have relayed his comments.
The Argentine’s contract at Celtic Park lasts until 2027, but José Olavo Bisol claims he’s keen on staying at the South American club.
The vice-president also insisted his side will not do anything crazy, despite their desire to retain him. Internacional have made this clear to Brendan Rodgers’ side and hope to find a solution for the fullback’s transfer.
“There’s a chance that he will stay. His contract runs out at the end of this year, but we have clauses that give us the option to buy him,” he said.
“However, our financial situation doesn’t allow us to be aggressive and exercise that option at the moment. But we have an agreement with the player and are in talks with Celtic.
“Bernabei has settled in well and has already expressed his desire to stay at the club. We’re not going to be financially irresponsible. We have limits and we’ve made that clear to Celtic. I hope the outcome is positive.”
Earlier claims have stated Internacional aren’t willing to offer €10m and are also finding it difficult to match the €5m requested by Celtic. They have to find a way and agree a deal, if they wish to have Bernabei in their squad next year.
Internacional’s failure to retain the defender would open the door for Palmeiras to sign him. Two days ago, UOL stated Palmeiras see Bernabei as a market opportunity because of his €5m price tag.
