News Transfer

Arsenal told in-demand star wants to join them – but there’s a huge problem

Updated: 23 Jul 2026 18:37 BST |
4 min read

© IMAGO
Matthew Judge

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Alex Scott prefers a move to Arsenal this summer, according to the Daily Mirror, but he has concerns over how much playing time he would receive.

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The Bournemouth star has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in the summer transfer window.

BBC Sport understands Chelsea have had a €75million (£64m) bid turned down by Bournemouth, who insist the midfielder is not for sale.

The same outlet claims Arsenal had an enquiry rejected by the Cherries, while Manchester United are also admirers of the 22-year-old.

Speculation continues to swirl regarding Scott’s future after The Athletic revealed he has turned down new contract “offers” from Bournemouth.

Scott has two years left on his current terms, with widespread reports suggesting Bournemouth value him at least €94m (£80m).

Alex Scott
© IMAGO – Alex Scott

And now The Mirror understands Scott would prefer to join Arsenal ahead of their Premier League counterparts Chelsea and United.

However, the same publication claims the former Bristol City man has reservations over the amount of minutes he would be afforded.

Arsenal currently have Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Christian Norgaard as midfield options.

Arsenal also keen on Guimaraes and Bouaddi

The Times understands Arsenal want to sign a flexible midfielder this summer, with Bruno Guimaraes and Ayyoub Bouaddi among their targets.

Bruno Guimaraes (left) and Ayyoub Bouaddi (right)
© IMAGO – Bruno Guimaraes (left) and Ayyoub Bouaddi (right)

United, on the other hand, are looking to sign a third central midfielder this summer, according to BBC Sport.

The Red Devils have already strengthened in that area of the pitch ahead of the 2026-27 season, having signed Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos.

Why the Premier League elite want to sign Scott

Scott has developed a reputation as one of the most promising midfielders in the Premier League at Bournemouth.

Alex Scott
© IMAGO – Alex Scott

He played a huge role in them qualifying for next season’s UEFA Europa League by securing an incredible sixth-place finish in 2025-26.

Scott has come close to making his debut for the England senior team, having taken part in a pre-World Cup training camp in the United States this summer.

He helped put the Three Lions squad through their paces in Florida, though he did not feature in the friendlies against New Zealand and Costa Rica.

Scott was named in England manager Thomas Tuchel’s 55-man provisional squad for the World Cup, however.

He has also represented England at youth levels – winning the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2022, and the Under-21 title in 2025.

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