Bournemouth are preparing for a potential January departure of Alex Scott and have begun actively seeking alternatives for the midfielder. Currently, Chelsea are considered the frontrunners for the 23-year-old Englishman, ahead of Liverpool.
The Cherries recognise that interest in Scott is growing stronger, prompting them to take proactive measures rather than waiting for a transfer confirmation.
One of the leading candidates to replace Scott is 20-year-old midfielder Kees Smit from AZ. Bournemouth have been tracking the Dutchman for some time and believe a deal with AZ could be possible.
Although Smit is currently recovering from a groin injury, that has not deterred Bournemouth from evaluating him as a potential successor to Scott.
Reports indicate that the midfielder is open to a January transfer, and a move to Bournemouth appeals to him.
Another name on their radar is Kenneth Taylor, who joined Lazio in January and has impressed in Serie A, becoming an integral player for the team. Brighton are also keeping tabs on him.
Moreover, Bournemouth have turned their attention to young Argentine talent Tomas Aranda from Boca Juniors, who has already made his debut for the senior Argentina squad and is seen as another option to strengthen their midfield.
The future of Scott remains the primary factor in this unfolding situation. Chelsea have long been interested in the player and are reportedly in the most advantageous position in the race for his signature.
Xabi Alonso is keen to bolster his midfield following the summer sale of Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City. The London club previously made a move for Lamina Kamara from Monaco, but that transfer collapsed on the final day of the window, making Scott one of their prime targets.
Liverpool are still in the hunt too, with Andoni Iraola familiar with Scott's talents and eager to work with him at Anfield.
Bournemouth are not prepared to let the midfielder go cheaply, with reports suggesting they will demand over £100 million in January.
Simultaneously, Bournemouth owner Bill Foley is prepared to offer Scott a new contract that would make him the highest-paid player in the club’s history, having previously turned down another record offer.
Thus, January could prove pivotal: either Scott agrees to a new deal, or Bournemouth will be ready to consider a substantial sale.
