Chelsea and Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, while Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham have turned their attention to other targets.
Chelsea have also previously received encouragement from Scott’s representatives to pursue a deal. Scott is expected to be sidelined for at least a month with a thigh injury sustained during England’s 7-0 Nations League win over Croatia.
He has two years left on his contract after joining Bournemouth from Bristol City in 2023. According to BBC Sport, Bournemouth are open to selling the 23-year-old in January if certain conditions are met.
Scott has been pushing to leave the Vitality Stadium since rejecting two contract offers at the end of last season, although the club insisted he was not for sale during the September/October international break.
However, following a final round of talks with his representatives, Bournemouth would consider his departure if an offer of around £100million arrives in January.
The club’s position in the Premier League table could also influence their decision. If Bournemouth find themselves battling near the bottom, they may decide to retain Scott to help secure their top-flight status. It would represent a significant shift in stance after Bournemouth rejected interest from several clubs during the summer.
Every member of the Premier League’s so-called ‘big six’ is believed to have made contact to varying degrees. Clubs were told not to submit offers or approach the player directly.
Chelsea nevertheless tested Bournemouth’s resolve with an initial £60million bid, potentially rising to £64million through add-ons, which was rejected.
Bournemouth began the season insisting that none of their prized assets, including Scott, Rayan and Eli Junior Kroupi, would be sold before the summer of 2027.
However, the Cherries have since reluctantly accepted they may have to let Scott leave if their valuation is met. Bournemouth can point to a market in which Premier League clubs have paid unprecedented fees for midfielders. Three players have commanded more than £100million, and the Cherries are seeking a similar fee for Scott.
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