Transfers
Chelsea push £100m+ Scott move, Bournemouth eye Dutch duo

Chelsea have accelerated a £100m‑plus pursuit of England midfielder Alex Scott, prompting Bournemouth to line up two Dutch alternatives as the club prepares for a possible January exit, TEAMtalk reports. The Cherries are already drafting contingency plans and have given the midfielder freedom to choose his next destination.
Chelsea emerge as frontrunners
Chelsea are currently viewed as firm favourites ahead of Liverpool in the race for Scott’s signature, with the Blues keen to strengthen a midfield reshaped after the summer sale of Enzo Fernandez. Bournemouth have made clear they will allow the England international to decide his future, while Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has also expressed interest in reuniting with the player at Anfield.
President of football operations Tiago Pinto is overseeing the search, directing a recruitment team that has identified Dutch internationals Kees Smit and Kenneth Taylor as viable replacements. Both players have impressed the scouting staff, prompting the club to monitor their situations closely.
Dutch targets attract interest
Kees Smit, a 20‑year‑old midfielder linked with a move to England for some time, is being tracked as a potential deal with AZ Alkmaar. Despite a current groin injury, Bournemouth remain confident a January transfer is feasible and believe the prospect of playing at the Vitality Stadium will appeal to him.
Liverpool target Camara and Scott for 2027 overhaul
Kenneth Taylor joined Lazio in January and has settled well in Serie A, becoming a key figure in a side that is currently flying high in the Italian top flight. His performances have drawn attention beyond Bournemouth, with Brighton also reported to be monitoring his progress.
In addition to the Dutch duo, Boca Juniors teenager Tomas Aranda has entered Bournemouth’s radar after earning senior honours with Argentina, adding further depth to the club’s midfield options as the January window approaches.
Owner Bill Foley is prepared to make another contract offer to Scott that would make him the highest‑paid player in the club’s history. The 23‑year‑old has already turned down one record‑breaking proposal, leaving his final decision still pending.
Chelsea push for £100m Alex Scott as January looms
Chelsea’s £100m‑plus bid underscores the intensity of the market, especially after a failed attempt to sign Lamine Camara from Monaco collapsed on deadline day. Xabi Alonso’s desire to bolster his midfield ranks adds further pressure on Bournemouth to secure suitable replacements before the winter transfer window closes.