REUTERS/Amanda Perobelli
Chelsea are preparing to submit an opening bid for AFC Bournemouth star Alex Scott, having identified him as their top target to replace Enzo Fernandez.
Fernandez's future at Stamford Bridge remains in doubt, with the Argentinian keen on joining Manchester City, who are searching for a new midfielder, following former Ballon d'Or winner Rodri's move to FC Barcelona.
REUTERS/Amanda Perobelli
Perhaps if Pep Guardiola was still in charge of Man City, Scott could've been considered as a replacement for Rodri, considering the 55-year-old is a big admirer, describing him as "unbelievable" during his time with Bristol City.
Since then, the former Bristol City man has proven his worth in the Premier League, making 81 appearances in the top tier for the Cherries, and he has chipped in with four goals and two assists.
The Guernsey-born midfielder has also impressed in terms of winning back possession, averaging 6.1 recoveries per 90 in the Premier League last season, while 12.2 defensive contributions per 90 was the highest number in the Bournemouth squad.
Another key aspect of the Bournemouth star's game is his work-rate, covering an average of 11.6km per 90 last term, which was more than any of Chelsea's players.
Ranking Chelsea's hardest workers Average km covered per 90
1. Enzo Fernandez 11.4
2. Malo Gusto 11.0
3. Marc Cucurella 10.9
4. Reece James 10.6
5. Cole Palmer 10.5
When it comes to his engine, the 23-year-old is clearly a similar type of player to Fernandez, but he is much less prolific than the 49-cap Argentina star, who was on the scoresheet 16 times for the Blues in all competitions last season.
Consequently, Scott may not be a like-for-like replacement, but that hasn't deterred the west Londoners, who could be about to ramp up their pursuit.
Chelsea readying bid for Alex Scott
REUTERS/Lee Smith
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea are now preparing an opening bid for Scott, as the central midfielder has emerged as their number one target to replace Fernandez.
The Blues could shell out as much as £85m for the Bournemouth maestro, who remains keen on joining one of the Premier League's top clubs.
The Englishman rejected a contract extension earlier this month, and he has less than two years remaining on his current deal, which means the Cherries may soon have to start thinking about cashing-in.
However, back in July, journalist Ben Jacobs revealed Bournemouth are happy to retain their prized asset, regardless of whether he pens a new contract, saying: "Bournemouth made their first renewal offer in March and talks have continued since.
Alex-Scott-Bournemouth
"Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City all made enquiries this summer and were told Scott is not for sale. Scott also appreciated by Chelsea.
"Scott's contract expires in summer 2028 and Bournemouth are content to keep him without an extension this summer, but interest is growing."