Chelsea have had a £64 million bid for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott rejected, with the Cherries determined to keep the England international this summer.
Scott among most sought-after midfielders
Scott, 21, is one of the most coveted midfield players in the current transfer window, with Arsenal and Manchester United also monitoring his situation. The former Bristol City youngster played a key role in Bournemouth's sixth-place Premier League finish last season. His contract at the Vitality Stadium runs until 2028, but he has rejected the club's offer of a new deal.
Chelsea move first after Rogers signing
News of Chelsea's offer emerged shortly after the club confirmed the record-breaking £117 million signing of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa, beating Arsenal to the England international. According to The Times, Bournemouth rejected Chelsea's £64 million proposal. The Cherries value Scott at £80 million and are desperate to retain his services.
Manchester United and Arsenal also interested
Manchester United have already signed two midfielders this summer—Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans from Chelsea and Aston Villa respectively—but want a third. However, they have shown they are willing to walk away from targets if the price is too high. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is eager to strengthen his squad after last season's Premier League title win. The Gunners made Rogers their top summer target but were reluctant to meet Villa's asking price. Arteta has Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Martin Odegaard in central midfield, but all three felt the strain of a demanding campaign, with Rice playing through an injury since the turn of the year. Christian Norgaard is expected to leave after just one season in north London, and Arsenal are also interested in Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes.
