Alonso, Iraola and Arteta - Source: Getty
Alonso, Iraola and Arteta - Source: Getty
Chelsea are reportedly leading the race for Alex Scott, who is also wanted by Arsenal and Liverpool. The AFC Bournemouth star has been in impressive form and was called up to the England squad by Thomas Tuchel.
According to a report in The Telegraph, Chelsea remain interested in signing Scott, after showing interest in the summer. The Blues are looking to add a midfielder following the sale of Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City, but could not seal a deal in the summer.
AFC Bournemouth reportedly rejected multiple bids from the Stamford Bridge side in the summer window. They were offered up to £68 million for the Englishman, but were unwilling to let him leave.
The 23-year-old was interested in joining the Blues, and is not interested in penning a new deal at the Vitality Stadium. He is in the final two years of his contract, and the Cherries know they need to make a decision on his future soon.
The Telegraph report suggests that Chelsea will make a move in January, but are willing to wait until the summer if AFC Bournemouth are not interested in selling in the winter window.
Liverpool and Arsenal are also interested in Scott, but have to beat the Blues. Xabi Alonso's side remain the 23-year-old's preferred destination and will hold the upper hand in the chase.
Apart from the Premier League clubs, reports suggest Real Madrid are also keeping tabs on the AFC Bournemouth star. The Cherries are asking £100 million for the midfielder.
Thomas Tuchel praises Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal target
England manager Thomas Tuchel spoke about Alex Scott earlier this month, heaping praise on the AFC Bournemouth star. He claimed that the midfielder was on top of his game in his first start and said:
"First start and what a start, what a performance. He is so smooth on the ball; his decision-making is at the highest level. He plays with so much confidence. He is so active, so confident. The work rate off the ball. He is just the complete package. He gave us a lot of mobility, and a lot of variety, and work rate in the centre of the pitch."
Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal are expected to make a move for the 23-year-old in January, as they are keen to bolster their squads. All three sides are battling for the Premier League title this season and are searching for a midfielder.