Manchester United have been forced out of the running for England and Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott. United assessed Scott's worth at around £40m, given that he's yet to earn his maiden full England cap and lacks Champions League experience. However, the Cherries are demanding upwards of £70m for one of their most treasured players.
United unwilling to meet valuation
United are unwilling to meet that valuation - and will persist in pursuing alternative options. This clears the path for Premier League rivals Arsenal to secure the midfielder, provided they can strike a deal.
It's believed Scott's agents have conducted discussions with multiple clubs, with the player expected to decide his future within the next two weeks. Scott is thought to prefer a switch to the Emirates, though concerns remain over his potential playing time under Mikel Arteta's English champions.
The 22-year-old has established himself as one of England's most promising midfield prospects. He proved pivotal in the Cherries' qualification for European competition last term. Scott also received a call-up to Thomas Tuchel's England squad for fixtures against Serbia and Albania last season, though he remained unused. He was subsequently invited to join Tuchel's squad for their preparation camp in Florida before the World Cup.
United midfield rebuild continues
United have bolstered their midfield ranks with the recent acquisitions of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. Michael Carrick remains eager to bring in a third player in this area, but United are not willing to enter into a bidding war with Arsenal over Scott.
Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes has agreed to commit his future to Manchester United with the Portuguese sensation set to confirm his stay at Old Trafford before the end of this month. Discussions between his agents and United chiefs regarding a new and improved contract have been ongoing. While no agreement has been finalised, it's understood Fernandes has chosen to dedicate himself to United.
Fernandes has entered the last season of his current contract, but has the option of a 12-month extension. Carrick has been eager to secure his star player's future, as he plans a challenge for the Premier League title next season. And with Fernandes aware that this could be the final major deal of his career at the top level, last season's player of the year is expected to become the club's highest paid star on a deal worth around £400,000-a-week. Retaining Fernandes will be a massive lift for United, given his significant impact since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon in a £47m transfer back in 2020.
