Chelsea are expected to revive their interest in Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott when the January transfer window opens, after failing to prise the 23-year-old away from the Cherries during the summer.
The west London club reportedly made several approaches for Scott but Bournemouth refused to sanction his departure. Chelsea are now preparing to monitor his progress closely before deciding whether to return with another offer in the new year.
Chelsea continue to track Alex Scott
Football Insider reports that Chelsea remain determined to strengthen in midfield following Enzo Fernandez’s deadline-day move to Manchester City. The club’s official website confirmed that the Argentina international had completed a permanent transfer after making 170 appearances for Chelsea.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown believes Chelsea will maintain a close watch on Scott in the coming months, with scouts expected to attend Bournemouth matches regularly.
“Chelsea now want him, but after they couldn’t get a deal done, I expect they will have scouts keeping a very close eye on him every week until the January window opens,” Brown said.
He added that the need for another midfielder was unlikely to disappear, although Bournemouth’s stance could prove decisive after the club held firm over Scott during the summer.
“Obviously a lot has to happen between now and then, but I can’t see Bournemouth being keen for him to move on after they worked hard to keep him in the summer,” Brown said.
Scott has established himself as an important member of the Bournemouth midfield and is viewed by Chelsea as a player capable of offering energy, control and composure in the centre of the pitch.
However, Bournemouth are not expected to make negotiations straightforward. The club have already rejected Chelsea’s advances and are preparing for a campaign that includes European football, meaning they may be reluctant to weaken their squad midway through the season.
Brown believes Chelsea may ultimately have to wait until next summer to complete a deal, even if they make another attempt in January.
“I expect Chelsea to return in January, but it might be something they have to wait until next summer for before they can get it done,” he said.
