Chelsea are already looking ahead to the January transfer window, with midfield remaining an area where Xabi Alonso could look to strengthen his squad.
The Blues were aggressive in their pursuit of one Premier League midfielder during the summer, but Bournemouth refused to entertain their advances.
With the next window approaching, the situation has changed, and Chelsea have reason to believe another opportunity could emerge.
There is still a huge obstacle to overcome, though, and the latest developments suggest this could become one of the most interesting transfer battles to watch.
Chelsea remain in contact for Alex Scott as Liverpool consider alternatives
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea remain firmly interested in Alex Scott and have maintained contact with the midfielder's representatives.
Romano confirmed that the Blues have held several discussions with Scott's agents, having identified the Bournemouth star as their leading midfield target during the summer.
“Chelsea are there, for sure. Chelsea are very interested in the player. Chelsea have had several contacts with his agents. Chelsea considered Alex Scott their top target in midfield over the summer, and it was not possible to proceed, but Chelsea loved the player. So, Chelsea are still there,'' he said on his YouTube channel.
The Blues even submitted a bid previously, only for Bournemouth to reject it. Liverpool, meanwhile, made contact to explore the situation but did not submit an offer of their own.
Now, their Merseyside rivals appear to be considering alternative options, with Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara among the players they have been tracking.
Romano has stressed that Liverpool's interest in Scott should not be completely ruled out, but their attention is also on other midfield targets as they plan for 2027.
“So, Liverpool are following Lamine Camara. They have been tracking him for a long time. There have been some calls regarding Alex Scott, and Liverpool have also been tracking Lamine Camara,'' he added.
“What I can tell you is that Liverpool are planning to do something important in midfield in 2027, adding very good players to that area. So, these are not just backup players. They want players who can be starters or future starters at Liverpool.”
That could be significant for Chelsea. If Liverpool decide to focus their efforts elsewhere, the Blues may face less competition for a player they have clearly admired for some time.
Bournemouth's £100m demand remains biggest hurdle
The biggest problem for Chelsea is the price.
Bournemouth are reportedly prepared to consider selling Scott in January, but only if a substantial offer arrives. Reports indicate they want around £100 million, with the club also considering their survival in the Premier League before making a final decision.
That is a significant increase on the £60 million bid, potentially rising to £64 million with add-ons, that Chelsea reportedly made during the summer.
Scott's contract runs until 2028, but his reported rejection of a new deal has increased the possibility of a departure.
Chelsea have already shown they are willing to spend heavily to improve their midfield, but paying £100 million for one player would still represent a major commitment.
The Blues need to decide whether Scott is worth that investment or whether their money would be better spent elsewhere.
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