Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea set for three-way battle over Alex Scott

Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea are all monitoring Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, according to BBC Sport. The 23-year-old has rejected several contract proposals and is valued at around £43m by Transfermarkt. Chelsea saw a £64m bid rejected last summer, while Liverpool and Arsenal remain keen.

  • Player: Alex Scott, 23, AFC Bournemouth midfielder
  • Clubs interested: Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea
  • Valuation: £43m (Transfermarkt) – Chelsea had a £64m bid rejected
  • Contract: Runs until 2028; Scott has rejected multiple contract proposals
  • What’s at stake: All three clubs are considering midfield reinforcements for next year

Deal details

Bournemouth do not want to sell Scott, whose current deal runs until 2028. However, the midfielder is keen to take the next step in his career and has already rejected a few contract proposals. Chelsea launched a formal £64m bid last summer, which the Cherries rejected, and remain keen. Liverpool are also interested, and manager Andoni Iraola knows Scott well from their time together at Vitality Stadium. Arsenal hold an interest, while Manchester City and Manchester United previously identified him as a key target, but having revamped their engine rooms, they are unlikely to move next year. Transfermarkt values Scott at around £43m.

The numbers

  • 39 appearances in all competitions last season
  • 5 goal contributions last season
  • 6th-place Premier League finish (Europa League qualification)
  • 2 goal contributions in 6 appearances this season
  • £64m Chelsea bid rejected
  • £43m Transfermarkt valuation

Why Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea all need midfield depth

Alex Scott has emerged as one of the most sought-after young midfielders in the Premier League. Bournemouth’s sixth-place finish last season, which secured Europa League football, showcased his ability to contribute in a high-performing side. His five goal contributions in 39 appearances underline a growing end product, while his call-up to the England squad for the September/October internationals reflects his rising reputation under Thomas Tuchel.

Liverpool allowed Curtis Jones to join Inter Milan this summer without signing a replacement, leaving a gap in their engine room. Andoni Iraola’s familiarity with Scott from their time at Bournemouth could give the Reds an edge, though Liverpool would need to act decisively to beat London rivals. Chelsea sold Enzo Fernandez on deadline day and failed to bring in a new midfielder, making their interest in Scott long-standing and urgent.

Arsenal bolstered their midfield by signing Bruno Guimaraes in the summer window, but Mikel Arteta still wants further depth. With Scott Premier League-proven and yet to reach his prime, he fits the profile of a shrewd acquisition for any of the three clubs. His ability to play in a box-to-box role would add energy and creativity, while his valuation makes him an attractive proposition compared to other targets. However, Bournemouth’s reluctance to sell and Scott’s desire for a new challenge set up a compelling negotiation saga for next year.

Talking points

  • Should Liverpool prioritise Scott over other midfield targets? Their need is clear after Curtis Jones left, but £43m for a player with five goal contributions last season is a gamble.
  • Would Scott start for Arsenal given Bruno Guimaraes’ arrival? Game time could be limited, which might push him towards Chelsea or Liverpool instead.
  • Is Scott worth £64m after Chelsea’s bid was rejected? Bournemouth are under no pressure to sell, and his contract until 2028 strengthens their hand.
  • Should Chelsea return with an improved offer after missing out on midfield reinforcements? They have the funds and the need, but Bournemouth may demand more.

What happens next

All three clubs are expected to consider a move for Scott next year, with Bournemouth determined to keep him. Scott’s performances for club and country before the next transfer window will be crucial. If he continues to impress, Bournemouth’s resolve could be tested by a bid exceeding £64m, while the player’s contract situation – expiring in 2028 – gives the Cherries leverage. For Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea, failing to strengthen their midfield could prove costly in the race for top-four finishes and European glory.

Frequently asked questions

Which clubs are interested in Alex Scott?

Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea are all interested in signing Alex Scott, according to BBC Sport. Manchester City and Manchester United previously identified him as a target but are unlikely to make a move next year.

How much would Alex Scott cost?

Transfermarkt values Scott at around £43m, but Chelsea had a £64m bid rejected by Bournemouth last summer. Bournemouth are reluctant to sell him.

Has Alex Scott rejected a new contract at Bournemouth?

Yes, Scott has rejected a few contract proposals. His existing deal runs until 2028, but he is keen on taking the next step in his career.

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