Chelsea have made Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott their top target for the January transfer window, according to the Sun.
Described as ‘unbelievable’ by Pep Guardiola, Scott has become one of the most sought-after midfielders in recent transfer windows, with his impressive displays for Bournemouth making him a highly attractive prospect. His performances have been particularly noteworthy this season, averaging 7.26 recoveries per game before his long injury layoff.
The 23-year-old, valued at £58m by Transfermarkt, is now just five appearances away from reaching 100 for the Cherries, highlighting the significant role he has played since moving to the Vitality Stadium from Bristol City in the summer of 2023.
Scott was also a key figure last season, featuring in 37 of Bournemouth’s 38 Premier League matches under Andoni Iraola as the Cherries finished sixth to secure their first-ever European qualification in their 127-year history.
His displays at club level have also earned him two international caps for England in the last international break, and he was notably described as the ‘complete package’ by the Three Lions coach, Thomas Tuchel, after he impressed on his debut against Croatia.
Scott was reportedly a subject of keen interest from Chelsea last summer. It appears they remain keen on signing him, as the Sun reports that Chelsea have made the midfielder their top target for the January transfer window.
Having failed to bring in a replacement for Enzo Fernández last summer after their pursuit of Monaco’s Lamine Camara collapsed, Chelsea have now made signing a midfielder their priority for the winter transfer window, with Scott now being targeted, according to the report.
‘Complete package’
However, Chelsea are not alone in the race, with the Sun adding that Premier League rivals Liverpool have also expressed interest in signing the 23-year-old.
Chelsea currently have Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, Jordan Henderson, Reece James and Valentin Barco as their midfield options.
The club also has a utilised 16-year-old academy midfielder, Reggie Watson, who notably started in the 6-3 Carabao Cup win over Leeds United in September to become the fourth-youngest player to start an official game for Chelsea.
Despite what appears to be depth on paper, the Blues remain short of quality options in the middle of the park. They have largely been second-best in contests and struggle to keep possession in most of their games.
Hence, bringing in a midfielder like Scott, who is efficient on the ball and also combative in duels, would be ideal to give Xabi Alonso capable options to compete for UEFA Champions League qualification this season.
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