Bournemouth have made it clear that 22‑year‑old midfielder Alex Scott is not for sale, even as Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal each send formal enquiries worth around £80 million.

Why are the top clubs interested?

The Cherries finished the 2025/26 campaign with Scott starting 34 of 38 league games, scoring four goals and adding an assist. His performances helped Bournemouth secure a 6th‑place finish in the Premier League with 57 points, a record‑setting season that saw the club concede 54 goals while scoring 58. Such a profile naturally draws interest from clubs looking to bolster their midfield creativity.

What has Bournemouth said?

According to senior correspondent Ben Jacobs, Bournemouth have offered Scott a new contract that includes a 2027 release clause, but the club’s stance remains firm: "Alex Scott is not for sale." The club values him at roughly £80 million and is prepared to keep him for another season even if his market price drops. This mirrors the club’s broader strategy of retaining home‑grown talent rather than cashing in during a season when they sit just 28 points behind leaders Arsenal.

How could a move affect the club’s season?

If Scott were to leave, Bournemouth would lose a key figure in a side that has been unbeaten in its last five matches (DDDDW) and currently enjoys a recent form of DDWWD. The last result, a 1‑1 draw with Nottingham Forest on 24 May 2026, underlines the fine margins that have kept them in the top six. Replacing a player who featured in 34 league starts would likely force a reshuffle of the midfield, potentially weakening their push for a European spot.

What are the rivals planning?

Manchester City, fresh from splashing £116 million on Elliot Anderson, still see Scott as a premium addition. Manchester United have already secured a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson but remain active in the midfield market. Arsenal, meanwhile, are reportedly preparing a bid that could reach the £80 million mark, hoping to add a "world‑class" British talent to their ranks. All three clubs have approached Bournemouth directly, yet the Cherries have consistently rebuffed the advances.

What’s next for Alex Scott?

With the transfer window closing soon, Scott faces a decision: sign the new deal and stay at Bournemouth, or test the market despite the club’s firm stance. Should he reject the offer, Bournemouth are comfortable keeping him for another season, even if his value depreciates. For now, the midfielder remains a central figure in a side that finished the season with a respectable 6th‑place finish, 57 points, and a goal difference of +4.