Chelsea handed January obstacle, £95m asking price set for key target

Chelsea have reportedly suffered a major blow in their pursuit of Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott ahead of the January transfer window. Bournemouth are determined to keep Scott at least until the end of the 2026/27 season and have placed a £94.6 million valuation on the player. Chelsea previously had a £60 million permanent transfer bid rejected during the summer.

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso reportedly views Scott as a strong fit for his system following Enzo Fernandez's deadline-day departure to Manchester City. While Scott is said to be open to a Stamford Bridge move, Chelsea may have to wait until the summer transfer window to secure the permanent signing.