Chelsea Set to Return With Improved Bid for Bournemouth Midfielder Alex Scott

Chelsea are preparing to submit a second offer for Bournemouth's Alex Scott after their opening bid of €75 million was knocked back, according to reports. The 22-year-old England midfielder turned down a contract extension with the Cherries last season, when he helped the club achieve their best-ever Premier League finish. His performances have attracted interest from Arsenal and Manchester United, but Chelsea remain the frontrunners for his signature. The Blues have already seen a €75m proposal rejected by Bournemouth, who are keen to keep Scott until at least next summer. However, Chelsea view the midfielder as a priority target following the sale of Andrey Santos to Manchester United, and they are expected to intensify their pursuit once the signing of Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix is completed. broadcaster Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg claims Chelsea are now weighing up a fresh bid that could reach €80m. Scott registered four goals in 39 appearances across all competitions last term, and his Estimated Transfer Value currently stands at a career-high €41.9m. From a tactical standpoint, Scott would slot in naturally alongside Moises Caicedo in a double pivot at Stamford Bridge. The 22-year-old is composed in possession, adept at progressing the ball, and willing to do defensive work. With Enzo Fernandez expected to remain at Chelsea this summer, another midfield option is still needed - and Scott could be the perfect fit for manager Xabi Alonso, even at the reported €80m price tag.