Chelsea could return for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott with an offer worth up to £85million if Enzo Fernandez leaves Stamford Bridge before the transfer window closes.
Manchester City remain interested in Fernandez despite agreeing a deal for Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, leaving Chelsea to consider potential replacements.
Scott has emerged as a leading option after Bournemouth rejected an earlier approach from the Blues this summer.
EXC: Chelsea have had a recent approach for Alex Scott rebuffed. Were willing to pay just north of £60m. Figure nowhere near Bournemouth's valuation and the Cherries have made it clear to Scott's suitors they don't want to sell in any case. With @JacobsBen for @talkSPORT
— Alex Crook ⚽️🎙 (@alex_crook) July 21, 2026
Chelsea could increase Alex Scott offer to £85m
TEAMtalk reports that Chelsea could offer as much as £85m for Alex Scott if Manchester City make a firm move for Fernandez.
The report claims Chelsea’s previous proposal was worth approximately £64m. ReadChelsea reported in July that Bournemouth rejected an approach worth just over £60m.
Bournemouth have so far resisted selling Scott, who started their Premier League opener against Manchester City on Sunday.
The Cherries confirmed Scott’s place in their starting XI, underlining his importance to new manager Marco Rose.
Scott, who turned 23 on Friday, has reportedly rejected another proposed Bournemouth contract. However, no new Chelsea bid has been submitted or accepted.
Enzo Fernandez decision could determine Chelsea transfer
Any move for Scott appears dependent on Fernandez’s future.
ReadChelsea reported on Sunday that Manchester City remain interested in Fernandez despite agreeing an £86m deal for Bouaddi.
City have already committed substantial money to strengthening their midfield, but Chelsea’s valuation of Fernandez remains a major obstacle.
The Guardian previously identified Scott and Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton as possible Chelsea replacements should the Argentina international depart.
ReadChelsea has also examined the competition Chelsea face for Wharton, with Crystal Palace expected to demand a substantial fee.
Fernandez remains available for Monday night’s Premier League opener against Fulham and features in ReadChelsea’s predicted Chelsea starting XI.
For now, Scott represents a potential contingency rather than an agreed transfer. Chelsea’s next move may depend on whether City turn their interest in Fernandez into a formal offer.
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