Manchester United are planning a third midfield signing after wrapping up deals for Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, with Bournemouth's Alex Scott emerging as a prime target. The club has already spent £85 million on Santos and Tielemans, but further investment could push the total to £165 million if Scott is secured.
Scott the Ideal Fit for Carrick's Engine Room
Alex Scott is a player Manchester United 'love' and would be the third ideal addition to the £85 million already spent on Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa. Santos was unveiled on Monday whilst Tielemans emerged as a surprise deal as the hierarchy accelerate plans to overhaul their midfield. Tielemans is set to undergo his medical on Tuesday after United triggered his £35 million release clause. However, their midfield business may not stop there with Scott also firmly on their radar.
The Bournemouth midfielder has quickly established himself as one of the Premier League's rising talents over the past season. Scott predominantly operated as a No.8, but also impressed as a No.6 - and that ability to excel in both roles is something United value highly as they look to reshape Michael Carrick's engine room.
Ornstein Reveals United's Midfield Plans
During an appearance on The Athletic FC Podcast, David Ornstein discussed the direction the club will look to take next after securing deals for Santos and Tielemans. United want a player to 'cover ground' in midfield, to complement the qualities of their current options including the two new signings. Ornstein has indicated that Scott is a player the club 'love', but Bournemouth are thought to be holding out for around £85 million - a sizeable fee for someone who may not be the perfect fit as the final piece of United's midfield rebuild.
Scott's Injury History and Recent Form
Scott's first two seasons on the south coast were disrupted by knee injuries, and while the 22-year-old didn't complete a full 90 minutes in the Premier League during the 2024/25 campaign, he started almost every game last season - a hugely successful year for the Cherries.
Santos Excited to Join United
Meanwhile, Santos said after signing for United: "Everything about Manchester United is special; it is an incredible feeling to join a club that some of my biggest idols have represented. As a midfielder, I am really excited to have the opportunity to learn from Michael Carrick; he is the perfect coach to help me take the next step in my career and push to achieve my dreams. Everybody told me about how ambitious the club is and the amazing environment that has been created here. I know just how strong the squad is and I cannot wait to fight together to compete for the biggest trophies."
