Manchester United have enquired about the availability of Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, according to The Athletic.
The Red Devils have already secured a verbal agreement to land Atalanta star Ederson this summer, but they are eyeing at least another marquee midfield signing.
West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes is the prime target for the position, but the Hammers’ £80 million valuation is expected to be a ‘fundamental sticking point’.
Amidst this, The Athletic claim that the Red Devils have ‘made enquiries around a deal’ for Alex Scott.
Bournemouth, on their part, are trying to convince the 22-year-old to prolong his stay beyond June 2028. The South Coast outfit are prepared to include a £75m release clause.
Scott could emerge as a potential Fernandes alternative
United are hot on the trail of Fernandes. The Portuguese is giving priority to the Red Devils, and manager Michael Carrick is likewise a big admirer of the Sporting CP graduate.
However, the club have no plans to meet the current valuation. Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid are also keen on the 21-year-old, and one of them could pay closer to the price tag.
In that case, United will have a big decision to make. Their reluctance to pay over the odds could mean they could pursue an alternative solution to bolster the heart of their midfield.
Scott could be targeted after a fantastic season for the Cherries. The 22-year-old started the previous campaign as a central midfielder, but moved into a more defensive role after an injury crisis.
This brought out the best in him. Scott won five duels and two tackles per league appearance. He also made five recoveries and a couple of clearances on average for Bournemouth.
Another impressive trait was his ball-carrying ability from the centre of the park. It won’t come as a surprise if United were to make an offer for the former Bristol City man in the near future.
The Cherries are eager to keep hold of Scott ahead of their Europa League campaign, but they may not resist a summer sale if the midfielder does not renew his contract expiring in two years.
United believe Scott could be prised away for around £60m, but they are bound to face competition. The Red Devils may need to be proactive with league holders Arsenal also keen on the player.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com