Arsenal told in-demand star wants to join them - but there’s a massive problem

Updated: 23 Jul 2026 08:39 BST | 4 min read

Matthew Judge | Editor

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Alex Scott prefers a move to Arsenal this summer, according to the Daily Mirror, but he has concerns over how much playing time he would receive.

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The Bournemouth star has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in the summer transfer window.

BBC Sport understands Chelsea have had a €75million (£64m) bid turned down by Bournemouth, who insist the midfielder is not for sale.

STATS

Alex Scott

M, DM (C)

B'mouth

Alex Scott

M, DM (C)

B'mouth

39

Games
4

Goals
1

Assists

The same outlet claims Arsenal had an enquiry rejected by the Cherries, while Manchester United are also admirers of the 22-year-old.

Speculation continues to swirl regarding Scott’s future after The Athletic revealed he has turned down new contract “offers” from Bournemouth.

Scott has two years left on his current terms, with widespread reports suggesting Bournemouth value him at least €94m (£80m).

And now The Mirror understands Scott would prefer to join Arsenal ahead of their Premier League counterparts Chelsea and United.

However, the same publication claims the former Bristol City man has reservations over the amount of minutes he would be afforded.

Arsenal also keen on Guimaraes and Bouaddi

The Times understands Arsenal want to sign a flexible midfielder this summer, with Bruno Guimaraes and Ayyoub Bouaddi among their targets.

© IMAGO - Bruno Guimaraes (left) and Ayyoub Bouaddi (right)

United, on the other hand, are looking to sign a third central midfielder this summer, according to BBC Sport.

The Red Devils have already strengthened in that area of the pitch ahead of the 2026-27 season, having signed Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos.

Why the Premier League elite want to sign Scott

Scott has developed a reputation as one of the most promising midfielders in the Premier League at Bournemouth.

He played a huge role in them qualifying for next season’s UEFA Europa League by securing an incredible sixth-place finish in 2025-26.

Scott has come close to making his debut for the England senior team, having taken part in a pre-World Cup training camp in the United States this summer.

He helped put the Three Lions squad through their paces in Florida, though he did not feature in the friendlies against New Zealand and Costa Rica.

This is Alex Scott as Chelsea are interested

Fit perfectly into Xabi’s system, i wont hesitate he becomes Chels pic.twitter.com/uFG4D9EtfS
— 𝚁𝙰𝚈  (@CfcRayyy) July 21, 2026