Chelsea look to be in the driving seat to land talented midfielder Alex Scott from Bournemouth sooner rather than later. The south coast club, under the guidance of Marco Rose, has softened its position on a potential transfer, allowing discussions to gain momentum regarding a deal in the region of €118 million (£100 million).
Previously, Bournemouth were reluctant to part ways with one of their key players mid-season, especially while they are competing in the Europa League. However, after extensive negotiations with Scott's representatives, circumstances appear to have changed.
According to reports from BBC Sport, Scott has turned down the offer to renew his contract, prompting the club to consider winter offers if they meet their valuation.
Chelsea are the front-runners for Scott’s signature. The West London club didn't manage to find a proper replacement for Enzo Fernandez during the last summer transfer window, and manager Xabi Alonso sees Scott as an ideal partner for Moises Caicedo.
However, the Gunners' rivals, Liverpool, along with Arsenal, have also shown interest in the midfielder.
Scott missed the recent match against Chelsea, which the Blues won 5-1, due to an injury sustained while away with the England squad. He is expected to make a swift recovery.
Chelsea could make a formal bid for Scott immediately after the winter transfer window opens on January 1.
How Chelsea can buy Scott without breaking the bank
This isn't about securing a 'free transfer', but rather about the club utilising player sales to offset Scott's expected price tag.
To land the midfielder, Chelsea will ideally need to raise around €118 million. FootballTransfers estimates that potential outgoing deals could yield significantly more income for the club.
First on the list of departures might be Alejandro Garnacho, who is on loan at Aston Villa and can be signed for €50 million, with certain conditions making that option compulsory.
Additionally, Chelsea could net €27 million from Napoli for Benoit Badiashile, who has a purchase option at the end of his loan.
Moreover, the likes of Robert Sanchez, Mykhailo Mudryk, Philip Jorgensen, and Axel Disasi are set to return from their loan spells next summer, collectively estimated to be worth €86.4 million.
Potential income from player sales
- Alejandro Garnacho €50 million
- Benoit Badiashile €27 million
- Sanchez, Mudryk, Jorgensen, and Disasi €86.4 million
- Total €163.4 million
- Cost of Alex Scott €118 million
- Potential surplus €45.4 million
Therefore, if Chelsea successfully execute these sales, they could theoretically bring in €163.4 million, exceeding Scott's price tag by €45.4 million.
However, it’s important to note that this scenario remains highly speculative. The purchases of Garnacho and Badiashile are by no means guaranteed, and the €86.4 million from the other players is merely an estimated value rather than confirmed offers. Furthermore, many potential sales are tied to the summer window, while Chelsea intend to make a play for Scott this January.
Still, the club views the Englishman as a long-term asset in their midfield and is poised to act quickly to get ahead of rivals in the race for his signature come January.
