Arsenal have had an approach for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott rejected, as the Premier League champions look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. The Gunners, who secured their first league title since 2004 last month, are keen to add depth in midfield following their title triumph.
Arsenal's Midfield Targets
According to BBC Sport, Bournemouth have rebuffed Arsenal's initial approach, insisting that Scott is not for sale this summer. The 22-year-old is valued at around £80 million, but the Cherries are attempting to tie him down to a new contract that would include a release clause. Scott enjoyed a stellar season for Bournemouth and is considered one of the Premier League's most promising young players.
In addition to Scott, Arsenal have expressed interest in Newcastle United duo Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali. However, Newcastle have adopted a similar stance, considering Guimaraes unsellable. Arsenal have already made contact through intermediaries and seen a verbal offer rebuffed. The same report claims that a deal for Guimaraes is currently viewed as more likely than one for Tonali, despite Newcastle's refusal to countenance a sale. The transfer fee required to force Newcastle into selling Guimaraes is likely to be vast, given the Brazilian's proven Premier League quality, though he turns 29 later this year.
Competition for Targets
Tottenham and Manchester United are also in the market for midfielders, with both clubs pursuing West Ham's Mateus Fernandes, who is valued at £85 million. Fernandes is another player touted with Arsenal, and the longer a deal evades both Manchester United and Spurs, the prospect of other suitors coming to the table may grow.
Arsenal have also been credited with an interest in other central midfielders, including Ayyoub Bouaddi, who impressed during the World Cup with Morocco. With Morgan Rogers emerging as Arsenal's priority attacking target, transfer funds will have to be proportioned appropriately. Aston Villa reportedly insist that a British record fee be paid for the 23-year-old, which could impact Arsenal's plans for central midfield.
Outlook
It remains to be seen if Arsenal or other suitors will test Bournemouth's stance on Scott. The Gunners have multiple irons in the fire as they look to enhance their squad for the new season. With a desire to strengthen both the left side of their attack and midfield, Arsenal are not resting on their laurels after their Premier League success.
