Bournemouth have lowered their valuation of midfielder Alex Scott to approximately £60 million, opening the door for Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester United to pursue a summer move. The Cherries initially demanded at least £80 million for the 23-year-old, according to reports last week, but the Daily Mail now indicates a fee closer to £60 million could secure his services.
Arsenal lead the race after Scott's standout performance
Arsenal, who clinched the Premier League title last season, are among the frontrunners for Scott. The midfielder impressed against the Gunners during the run-in, scoring the decisive goal in Bournemouth's 2-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium. That strike briefly threatened Arsenal's title charge before they ultimately secured the championship. Manager Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his midfield options and sees Scott as a complement to Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Martin Zubimendi. Christian Norgaard, who arrived from Brentford last summer, is expected to be deemed surplus to requirements as Arteta seeks greater rotation next term.
Manchester United also monitoring Scott's situation
Manchester United are tracking Scott's situation closely, with midfield reinforcements needed following Casemiro's departure. The Red Devils have already agreed a deal for Atalanta's Brazil international Ederson, but manager Michael Carrick remains short on numbers, especially with European football returning to Old Trafford. United also hold interest in Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton and Brighton's Carlos Baleba, but appear to be losing ground in the race for West Ham's Mateus Fernandes. Scott, who came close to being included in Thomas Tuchel's England World Cup squad, remains a key target.
Contract situation and other Bournemouth players in demand
Scott's current contract runs until 2028, but progress on a new deal has stalled as Bournemouth enter a new era under Marco Rose, who succeeded Andoni Iraola. The 23-year-old is not the only Bournemouth midfielder attracting interest; USA international Tyler Adams also has admirers. Arsenal are additionally eyeing Bournemouth's Eli Junior Kroupi, who enjoyed a stunning debut season capped by scoring the goal that secured European qualification and handed the title to the north London club.
