Arsenal are vying with Manchester United to sign Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott this summer, according to The Daily Mail.
The Gunners are exploring the possibility of signing a new midfielder, and Scott’s name has been mentioned on multiple occasions.
Bournemouth are reportedly determined to keep him with a new contract this summer, but this has not necessarily ended the speculation.
The Daily Mail claim that Arsenal are growing ‘increasingly optimistic’ about prising the Englishman away from the South Coast outfit.
A package of around £80m could persuade the Cherries to part ways with the 22-year-old.
Scott could be an alternative to Bruno Guimaraes
The Gunners have recently expressed an interest in landing Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United, but the Magpies seem reluctant to sell.
A verbal offer worth £55m was turned down last week, and reports claim that the Magpies could hold out for more than £100m for a transfer.
With Guimaraes turning 29 later this year, the Gunners are highly unlikely to make such a huge outlay to bring him to the club this summer.
An alternative could be pursued. Scott could be a good solution, given that he can operate as a holding, central, or attacking midfielder.
Scott primarily played as more of a deep-lying midfielder last term after a mid-season injury crisis at Bournemouth. It brought the best out of him.
The Englishman won five duels and almost two tackles per game with five recoveries.
He also chipped in with a few goal contributions. One of those was the match-winner at the Emirates Stadium during the first half of April.
On top of this, Scott also excelled with his positioning and tireless work rate. He would be a good alternative if Guimaraes can’t be signed.
Arsenal may not pay £80m as a fixed fee, but a deal could be on the cards if the Cherries accept £65m upfront with the remainder in add-ons.
Stats from Sofascore.com