Chelsea's pursuit of Alex Scott is gathering momentum once again after the club's opening offer was knocked back by Bournemouth, and it is easy to understand why the Blues are refusing to walk away.
Scott has developed into one of the Premier League's standout young midfielders over the past 12 months, transforming from a promising talent into one of Bournemouth's most influential players.
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While his technical ability has never been questioned, last season saw him add greater maturity, consistency and leadership to his game as Bournemouth enjoyed the best campaign in the club's history, securing European qualification for the first time.
The 22-year-old became one of the first names on the teamsheet.
Scott featured in all but one of Bournemouth's 38 Premier League matches last term, scoring three goals and providing one assist, but those numbers only tell part of the story.
Operating across central midfield, as a number eight and occasionally in a more advanced role, he became Bournemouth's main link between defence and attack.
Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott
His ability to receive possession under pressure, drive through midfield and progress the ball made him one of ex-boss Andoni Iraola's most trusted performers throughout 25/26.
Pep Guardiola previously described Scott as an "unbelievable player" after facing him earlier in his career, while England and former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is also understood to be a long-time admirer.
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Scott was rewarded with a place in England's pre-World Cup training camp, even if he narrowly missed out in their final squad for the tournament.
Xabi Alonso is clearly an admirer of his, and despite the Cherries reluctance to sell, Chelsea aren't throwing the towel in.
Alex Scott to Chelsea latest as Alonso refuses to give up chase for Bournemouth star
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According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Chelsea remain very interested despite seeing their opening £64 million bid rejected.
The Blues are now considering submitting an improved offer after Bournemouth made it clear they have no intention of selling easily.
The Cherries remain determined to keep Scott, while several other clubs are also monitoring his situation following his outstanding campaign.
Chelsea therefore face a significant challenge.
Bournemouth are under no financial pressure to sell after qualifying for Europe and Scott still has two years remaining on his contract. The south coast club have already seen a new contract rejected from the player, but they continue to value him as one of the foundations of their long-term project.
That means Chelsea will almost certainly have to improve both the transfer fee and the overall package if they are to persuade Bournemouth to change their stance.
However, their willingness to return with another bid demonstrates just how highly they rate the former Bristol City midfielder.
If negotiations continue, Scott could become one of the biggest Premier League transfers of the summer.
Chelsea are clearly convinced he has the quality to develop into one of England's leading midfielders, while Bournemouth remain equally determined to ensure any club wishing to sign him pays a fee that reflects both his current importance and enormous long-term potential.
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