Atletico Mineiro head coach Cuca has admitted that he will find it difficult to keep Brazilian attacker Bernard at the club.
The 20-year-old, who impressed at the Confederations Cup this summer, has been linked with a number of European teams in recent weeks.
He told UOL: "Atletico Mineiro won't be able to keep Bernard, but this is natural.
"We have to take advantage of having him in Libertadores and if he leaves, as it seems it will happen, it's up to us to develop another player like him."
Tottenham Hotspur and Porto are reported to be leading the race for the youngster.