Chelsea are exploring adding a new central midfielder after seeing a £64million bid for Alex Scott rejected. Bournemouth view Scott as not for sale, even though the English midfielder has refused to date to sign a new contract.
Bournemouth have held ongoing talks with the 22-year-old since March, and GIVEMESPORT understands Scott recently communicated his desire not to extend after returning from training with England, even though he wasn't included in Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad.
Manchester United, Arsenal and Manchester City have all made approaches to Bournemouth and have also been told the club has no desire to sell.
Bournemouth calm about Alex Scott transfer interest
Alex Scott
Alex Scott
Bournemouth are prepared to keep Scott for at least another season, even knowing by summer 2027 he will only have one year left on his current deal. The player has remained focused on the new season ahead with Bournemouth sources noting his professionalism despite growing speculation.
Bournemouth sources insist there is no market price for Scott, and interested clubs have not been quoted a figure. GMS understands Bournemouth's internal valuation is around £80million, but there is no guarantee even that number would prompt a sale. Chelsea's £64million offer was turned away quickly and without a counter.
Bournemouth sources argue the volume of interest in Scott, and the inflated market, leave them in a strong position should the club decide to engage this summer, but there is no indication the Cherries will change their stance right now.
Bournemouth still haven't ruled out Scott signing a new contract as the situation could be revisited later in the summer or year. The club are prepared to offer a 2027 release clause in any extension, which is the tact they used with Antoine Semenyo ahead of his January move to Manchester City.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!
Any new midfielder at Chelsea does not guarantee Enzo Fernandez will leave, but the Blues will consider offers of £120million. Fernandez has made no secret of his desire to join Real Madrid, yet Los Blancos issued a public statement saying they have no intent to bid.
Chelsea are in talks over a number of other transfers
maxence lacroix
Elsewhere, Chelsea remain in formal talks for Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix. Sources describe those discussions as positive. And free agent John Stones, who impressed at the World Cup with England, has been added to Chelsea's list of options.
And Alejandro Garnacho is closing in on a move to Aston Villa. Advanced talks are ongoing with a loan with a buy obligation being discussed.
Aston Villa also appreciate Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, who is valued at £65million and played under Unai Emery at Villarreal.
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