Man United on alert as Alex Scott turns down Bournemouth contract extension

Alex Scott has rejected new contract proposals from Bournemouth, putting Manchester United on high alert as the summer window heats up. The 22-year-old midfielder, who played a pivotal role in Bournemouth’s surprise run to sixth place in the Premier League last season, has become one of the most closely watched young talents in Europe. According to insider sources, Scott has turned down multiple offers from the Cherries, with his current deal still running until 2028. Bournemouth value the England youth international at €93 million, and they had been prepared to insert a release clause into a new contract – a tactic they used successfully with Dean Huijsen and Antoine Semenyo before those players moved on to Real Madrid and Manchester City. But Scott’s refusal to commit has opened the door for suitors. Manchester United are among the most interested parties. The Red Devils are known to be prioritizing midfield reinforcements this summer and have already missed out on Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, who moved to Manchester City and Tottenham respectively. United are expected to bring in at least two new midfielders regardless of exits, and Scott fits the profile they are chasing. Arsenal and Chelsea have also shown interest in the past, but United are now weighing up a formal bid. The club’s midfield search has been wide-ranging: Ederson is reportedly set for a medical after Brazil’s World Cup exit, while Aurelien Tchouameni is expected to stay at Real Madrid. Interest in Carlos Baleba has cooled, and Felix Nmecha is not a primary target. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Andrey Santos – valued at €58 million – has emerged as an alternative option, with the Blues needing to raise funds after posting a record £262.4 million pre-tax loss for the 2024-25 financial year. For now, the spotlight remains on Scott. His decision to reject Bournemouth’s advances could trigger a bidding war, and United appear ready to act.