Bournemouth face a battle to keep three key players – Alex Scott, Eli Junior Kroupi and Rayan – this summer, despite interest from Manchester United, Arsenal and other Premier League clubs
Alex Scott of Bournemouth
Alex Scott of Bournemouth has been liked with Manchester United(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
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Bournemouth have reportedly decided to do everything they can to retain three of their key players, despite reported interest from Manchester United. The Cherries enjoyed a remarkable run in the second half of the season, becoming the first team in the club's history to qualify for European football.
Andoni Iraola steered Bournemouth to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League, securing a spot in the Europa League — just three points adrift of Liverpool, who claimed Champions League qualification.
Consequently, several Bournemouth players have already been linked with departures from the Vitality Stadium. Eli Junior Kroupi, Alex Scott and Rayan have all found their futures subject to intense speculation in recent weeks, following their impressive performances for the Cherries.
Multiple outlets are reporting that Bournemouth are firmly intent on holding on to all three players this summer, despite apparent interest from some of the Premier League's biggest clubs.
United have been linked with a potential move for Scott this summer as they seek to bolster their midfield, with Atalanta's Ederson close to completing a £38million switch to Old Trafford.
Scott remains under contract with the Cherries until 2028, and it has been suggested that the former Bristol City midfielder could be handed a new deal in a bid to ensure the playmaker remains at the club.
Thomas Tuchel did not select Scott when naming his 26-man England squad for this summer's World Cup, though the 22-year-old will feature in the Three Lions' pre-tournament setup for friendly fixtures against Costa Rica and New Zealand.
Alex Scott
Alex Scott is under contract at Bournemouth until 2028
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Meanwhile, Kroupi has had an outstanding first full season in English football since his January arrival last year, finding the net 13 times in the Premier League. His performances have sparked speculation that Arsenal could make a move for the 19-year-old, alongside interest from several other clubs.
Rayan only joined Bournemouth in January from Brazilian side Vasco da Gama and has a contract running until 2031.
However, the Cherries will be aware that the forward has an £87m release clause written into his deal, which becomes active next summer.
United are believed to be focusing on strengthening their midfield during this summer's transfer window, with numerous players being linked in addition to Ederson.
Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson and Newcastle's Sandro Tonali, along with Bournemouth's Scott, have all been mentioned as possible targets for United in recent weeks.