Mirror: Chelsea lead £100m race for Alex Scott, but Bournemouth hold key to January move

Chelsea are in pole position to sign Alex Scott if Bournemouth decide to sell, the Mirror reports, with the midfielder valued at £100million. The report does not say Chelsea have made an offer, and a January move would depend on Bournemouth’s position in the Premier League table, according to BBC Sport, as cited by Spurs Web.

Bournemouth rejected enquiries and offers for the 23-year-old in the summer, but BBC Sport reports the club’s stance has shifted ahead of January. The report says Bournemouth would consider a sale for £100m only if they are not towards the bottom of the table. If they remain near the foot, they could keep Scott to help their fight for survival.

That qualification carries weight: Bournemouth are 18th after six games, with three points from three draws and three defeats. Scott’s price may be clear, but the club’s league position could determine whether there is a deal to discuss at all.

BBC Sport also reports that Scott has pushed to leave and rejected two new contract offers. Chelsea and Liverpool have maintained their interest, while Chelsea have received encouragement from Scott’s representatives to pursue a move. Liverpool could have an advantage because of Scott’s relationship with Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, the report says.

Tottenham, Manchester City and Manchester United were also interested in the summer, according to BBC Sport, but turned to other targets when Bournemouth would not sell. Their interest could return if the club’s position changes. Spurs Web notes that Scott grew up supporting Tottenham, while the midfielder’s first two England caps came in recent Nations League matches against Czechia and Croatia.

Scott has one goal and no assists in the Premier League this season. Spurs Web lists five appearances, 446 minutes, 11 key passes and an 81 per cent pass-completion rate. He is also listed as out with a thigh injury.

Chelsea are sixth with 10 points from six matches, while Bournemouth’s immediate focus is a home game against Sunderland on Sunday, 18 October. For now, the reported £100m valuation and Bournemouth’s place in the table leave the January decision with the Cherries—not Chelsea.