Chelsea face a significant obstacle in their pursuit of Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, with the Cherries unwilling to consider selling him during the January transfer window.
The London club remain interested in Scott after failing to strengthen their midfield during the summer. They had identified him as a potential addition and saw a £60 million bid rejected.
Scott is understood to be open to a move to Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea view him as a suitable fit for Xabi Alonso’s system. Bournemouth, however, are determined to retain the midfielder until at least the end of the 2026/27 campaign.
Bournemouth set asking price for Alex Scott
The club are braced for approaches from interested sides in the winter window but are expected to reject them. Dean Jones says Bournemouth value Scott at €110 million, equivalent to about £94.6 million.
“Sources continue to insist they believe Scott will see out this entire season with Bournemouth – and that means Chelsea are going to have to think carefully about their approach to midfield recruitment,” Jones said.
The valuation could make a January move difficult even if Chelsea decide to test Bournemouth’s resolve. Instead, the Blues may look to establish an agreement ahead of a possible approach next summer.
“There is also the possibility that Chelsea make early inroads with Bournemouth to make sure they are the club that lands Scott in the next summer window,” Jones added.
Chelsea’s need for midfield reinforcements has increased following Fernandez’s departure to Manchester City on deadline day. They also failed to complete a late move for Lamine Camara, leaving the club to weigh up whether to pursue a short-term solution or continue planning for Scott.
