Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola hug before kickoff during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Arsenal at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth, UK on 3 January 2026.
Credit Image: © Graham Hunt / SmartFrame/Pro Sports Images / SmartFrame
Arsenal have joined Liverpool and Chelsea in a potential £100 million transfer battle ahead of the January window.
Mikel Arteta’s side have enjoyed an impressive start to their Premier League title defence, winning nine of ten matches.
However, the Gunners remain interested in strengthening their squad despite their commanding early-season performances.
Liverpool and Chelsea are also exploring midfield reinforcements after experiencing inconsistent starts to their respective campaigns.
Chelsea sit fifth under Xabi Alonso, while Liverpool have gradually improved following a difficult opening under Andoni Iraola.
Both clubs could accelerate their recruitment plans in January, potentially forcing Arsenal to reconsider their preferred summer approach.
The three Premier League rivals have now approached the same club regarding one of England’s most promising midfielders.
According to The i Paper, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea have contacted Bournemouth about a potential move for Alex Scott.
The 23-year-old has rejected two contract extension offers, with his existing agreement running until the summer of 2028.
Chelsea and Liverpool are understood to favour a January transfer, whereas Arsenal would prefer to wait until summer.
However, increasing competition could persuade Arteta’s side to act earlier than originally planned.
Bournemouth have placed a valuation exceeding £100 million on Scott and remain reluctant to sanction a mid-season departure.
The Cherries rejected several Chelsea offers worth approximately £70 million during the previous summer transfer window.
Their valuation also reflects Bristol City’s entitlement to 20 per cent of any transfer fee received.
Scott joined Bournemouth from Bristol City for £25 million and has developed into an established England international.
His performances have attracted growing attention, particularly after an impressive 2025–26 campaign under Iraola.
Liverpool’s interest could benefit from Scott’s previous relationship with their current manager at Bournemouth.
Meanwhile, the midfielder is understood to be comfortable remaining at Bournemouth until the season ends.
The south coast club sit seventh and retain European ambitions, strengthening their determination to keep him.
Scott currently earns approximately £50,000 weekly, with a transfer potentially tripling his wages.
Nevertheless, Bournemouth could consider a substantial January offer, particularly with Scott unwilling to extend his contract.
🚨 Arsenal have joined Liverpool and Chelsea in the race to sign Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott.
Bournemouth want over £100M for the 23-year-old, who has rejected two contract offers and has 18 months left on his deal.
Liverpool and Chelsea favour a January move, while Arsenal prefer the summer but could act sooner if competition intensifies.
(Source: @theipaper)
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