[Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent
Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent](https://www.footballinsider247.com/author/pete-o-rourke-transfer-correspondent)
Transfer Correspondent AUTHORITY Former Sky Sports and ESPN FC correspondent who specialises in global recruitment, contract negotiations, and high-velocity transfer breaking news. FOCUS Exclusive reporting, domestic and international transfer markets, and elite-level insights. THE INSIGHT Pete utilises a Global Network of Industry Sources to deliver verified, first-to-market reporting. His “Deep-Lens” analysis connects the dots between boardroom strategy and pitch-level recruitment, providing a level of transfer clarity that goes beyond surface-level rumours.
The 22-year-old came incredibly close to a move to Stamford Bridge on deadline day, with agreements reached between all parties, before Monaco pulled the plug late on.
Since then, the Blues have continued to keep tabs on the midfielder's performances in Ligue 1, and have been linked with potentially reigniting their move in January.
The Bournemouth midfielder has been high on Xabi Alonso's list of targets since the summer transfer window, when they saw multiple bids rejected by the Cherries.
Ahead of the January transfer window, Chelsea are preparing to step up their interest in Scott once again, and have put their pursuit of Camara on the back burner as a result.
What is the latest on Lamine Camara's future?
Football Insider revealed last month that Chelsea were "very angry" at Monaco for the way their pursuit of Camara broke down in the closing stages of the window.
Sources suggested the Blues would have to get over their grievances if they were to reignite a move for the Senegal international, but it now appears they have decided otherwise.
Scott is now seen as Chelsea's priority target for the January transfer window as they plan to revamp their midfield, with any move for Camara now in the past.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Camara was very close to joining Chelsea in the summer transfer window before that collapsed at the eleventh hour.
"It remains to be seen if Chelsea would renew their interest in Camara, but I think they are looking at other targets instead and have moved on from that deal.
Will Chelsea make a move to sign Alex Scott?
Chelsea's interest in Scott has been long-standing, with the midfielder's performances for Bournemouth over the last 12 months placing him high on their list of targets.
Alonso's side saw multiple offers rejected for the 23-year-old, including a late bid on deadline day which was immediately blocked by Bournemouth.
However, former Man United scout Mick Brown told Football Insider last month that Chelsea are planning to reignite their interest in Scott when the January window opens.
The midfielder turned down an offer to extend his contract at the Vitality Stadium, placing potential suitors on alert, but Bournemouth were very reluctant to see him leave.