Manchester United have suffered a fresh setback in their pursuit of a Premier League star.
According to The Standard, Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott wants to join Chelsea this summer.
Chelsea recently saw an opening bid worth £64 million rejected, but their interest remains strong.
Bournemouth are eager to tie Scott down to a new long-term contract, yet the 22-year-old has reportedly rejected several renewal offers.
Although Scott is highly admired by senior figures at Old Trafford, INEOS have shown little appetite to match the £80m valuation.
Man United may not make a move for Alex Scott
The recent blockbuster transfers of Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes have dramatically inflated the Premier League market.
With those deals setting a new benchmark, Bournemouth believe they are fully justified in demanding a premium fee for one of their most valuable assets.
United have already taken major steps in rebuilding the midfield by securing the signings of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
The Red Devils are still eager to recruit another midfielder capable of dominating physically while covering huge areas of the pitch.
The financial outlay alone makes Scott a difficult deal, but another key factor could ultimately convince INEOS to walk away.
United have remained firm throughout the summer that they only want players who are fully committed to representing the club.
That philosophy was evident during the pursuit of Mateus Fernandes, who failed to demonstrate a clear preference for Old Trafford once Tottenham Hotspur entered the race.
Should Scott continue to favour a move to Chelsea, INEOS may decide the transfer is no longer worth pursuing regardless of his undeniable talent.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com