Reports recently emerged that Alex Scott has turned down a new deal at Bournemouth.
The English midfielder has become a hot property in the summer transfer window after his performances over the last few years for the Cherries.
Scott is one of the most technically-gifted midfielders in the Premier League, and he’s also not afraid to put himself about. After rejecting a new contract at Bournemouth, interest could ramp up in the Englishman, especially with a host of sides in the market for a new midfielder.
Bournemouth certainly won’t want to lose Scott easily, but if he does head through the exit door, where could he end up?
Alex Scott transfer analysis:
Dream: Man City
Scott certainly has the technical qualities to play for a side like Manchester City. It’s a shame for him that Pep Guardiola is no longer there, as the former Man City boss was a huge fan of his, previously describing him as an ‘unbelievable player’.
Man City could be in the market for a versatile midfielder in the summer transfer window, especially with Bernardo Silva departing.
Scott is an all-action midfielder, covering plenty of ground and playing in various roles in the middle of the park. The Bournemouth man works incredibly hard in midfield, loves to carry the ball from deep, and can create chances – similar to Silva.
Man City have already signed Elliot Anderson in midfield, but they might be looking for someone who can play a little further forward. It’s perhaps only a dream destination for Scott, as they already have plenty of talent in midfield.
Realistic: Man Utd
It’s no secret that Manchester United are in the market for another midfielder in the summer. That’s despite bringing Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos to the club already.
Casemiro has left the club following the expiration of his contract, while Manuel Ugarte is currently out injured for a lengthy period.
In comparison to Santos and Tielemans, Scott would offer something different for Man Utd in midfield. The Bournemouth star is more of a ball carrier and ball winner than the aforementioned duo.
Scott is more likely to try to take players on and carry the ball into the opposition half than Santos and Tielemans, while he’s a strong duel winner. Playing in an Andoni Iraola side has seen Scott develop his out-of-possession game, which could be beneficial for Man Utd.
A move to Old Trafford feels realistic for Scott, considering they are in the market for a new midfielder. It appeared at the beginning of the window that the Red Devils would splash the cash on a marquee midfield addition, and Scott could be that man.
Wildcard: Aston Villa
A move to Aston Villa could be an interesting one for Scott. The Bournemouth midfielder might be thinking that if he were to leave Bournemouth, it’s going to be to a so-called ‘big six’ side. Despite that, Aston Villa could be an interesting wildcard club for him to join this summer.
Amadou Onana was recently ruled out for a significant period after sustaining a serious knee injury at the World Cup. The Villans have also lost Tielemans to Man Utd, so they could be in the market for another midfielder.
Joao Gomes has arrived from fellow Midlands side Wolverhampton Wanderers. But Villa could need more in the middle of the park. Johan Manzambi has also signed on the dotted line at Villa Park, but he’s more of an attacking option for Unai Emery’s side.
Scott could be the mix between the two signings. A midfielder capable of breaking up play, carrying from deep, and creating chances. His high-pressing ability would be perfect for manager Emery,
It remains to be seen whether Villa will enter the market for another midfielder after Gomes and Manzambi, which is why it’s only a wildcard option.
Squawka Suggests: Liverpool
A move to Liverpool just makes sense, doesn’t it?
Liverpool have been linked with a host of midfielders this summer, which is no surprise after their underperformance last season. The likes of Curtis Jones are also attracting interest, so signing a midfielder could be a priority for them.
Scott linking back up with Iraola could be the perfect move. The new Liverpool manager, of course, knows him well from his time at Bournemouth. And there’s no doubt he got the best out of him.
If Iraola wants to implement his frantic, high-pressing system, Scott could be the ideal midfielder to add to that. Scott is a complete midfielder, capable of doing everything, and he’d be a huge boost to Liverpool’s options.
A move to Liverpool would see Scott able to play Champions League football, and he should be able to slot straight into Iraola’s side with ease. He knows the manager’s demands and style of football, so it’s a move that makes sense for both club and player.