Chelsea 'lead race' for perfect €100m signing

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Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Chelsea are leading the race to sign Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott ahead of the upcoming winter transfer window.

Xabi Alonso’s side saw multiple bids for the 23-year-old rejected over the summer and they are set to rekindle their interest in his signature in 2027 after failing in their bid to sign a suitable replacement for Enzo Fernandez on Transfer Deadline Day.

Scott was regarded as a primary target by Chelsea before the end of the window and they are once again eager to sign him next year, despite reports confirming that Bournemouth have no interest in sanctioning a sale when the January window opens.

The England star will have just 12 months remaining on his current contract at Bournemouth next summer and while the Cherries are eager to tie him down to fresh terms, it’s claimed that he is unlikely to put pen to paper on a new deal amid substantial transfer interest.

Real Madrid have reportedly joined the race to secure his signature next year, while Arsenal and Liverpool are also keeping close tabs on his development ahead of a potential approach during the 2027 summer transfer window.

However, The Telegraph confirm that Chelsea are currently leading the race to sign Scott, who could feasibly cost as much as €100 million as Bournemouth look to maximise their potential transfer profit.

It’s reported that while Bournemouth are expected to block a sale in January, this hasn’t diminished Chelsea’s interest, with the two-time Champions League winners willing to wait until the summer in order to finalise a deal if necessary.

Thomas Tuchel issues glowing Alex Scott praise

Scott has established himself as one of the best central midfielders in the Premier League over the past 12 months and Chelsea officials will have been left thoroughly impressed after he shone during his first senior international start for England during their 7-0 rout of Croatia on Saturday evening.

Speaking to reporters after Scott’s eye-catching performance, England boss Thomas Tuchel said: “First start and what a start. What a performance.

“He’s just so smooth at the moment on the ball, decision-making is on the highest level, he plays with so much confidence. He’s so active, so confident and the work-rate off the ball, he’s the complete package at the moment.

“He gave us today a lot of mobility, a lot of variety and a lot of work-rate in the centre of the pitch, together with Elliot.”

Scott has scored seven goals and provided seven assists in 95 appearances for Bournemouth, and he is widely expected to become the latest England international to join a ‘big-six’ Premier League club for a hefty fee next summer.