
Manchester United’s midfield rebuild has gathered serious momentum in recent days, with Michael Carrick determined to give his side greater depth.
Competition for some of their remaining targets is beginning to intensify as rival Premier League clubs step up their interest.
With the new season drawing closer, several transfer battles are starting to take shape.
One of United’s long-standing targets could now become the subject of a bidding war.
According to Simon Phillips on X, Chelsea are expected to make an offer for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, with the Blues preparing to test the Cherries’ resolve despite their insistence that the England youth international is not for sale.
The London club is placing Scott high on their shortlist as they look to strengthen their midfield options.
Manchester United also remain firmly in the race for the 22-year-old.
The Red Devils recently received encouragement after it emerged that Alex Scott rejected Bournemouth’s latest contract extension proposal, fuelling speculation over his long-term future at the Vitality Stadium.
Although Bournemouth have placed an £80 million valuation on the midfielder, United are understood to still be open to pursuing a deal if the right opportunity presents itself.
Carrick’s side have already made significant progress in midfield after agreeing a deal with Chelsea to sign Andrey Santos.
According to The Athletic, the agreement is worth £48 million plus £2 million in easily achievable add-ons, with Chelsea also negotiating a 10% sell-on clause.
United had also reached an agreement with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson before his transfer was delayed following his late call-up to Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He is also undergoing a second medical with United.
Even with Santos on his way to Old Trafford and Ederson expected to follow, Manchester United continue to monitor Scott’s situation closely.
I didn’t say that. I said Chelsea are ‘expected to try for Alex Scott’ after the sale of Romeo Lavia, as in throw them an offer that I’m sure will be rejected anyway. VERY big difference.
Head to https://t.co/LOwEv2ArX3 if you ever need to see exactly what I actually report. https://t.co/4RuXc7O1Tm
— Simon Phillips (@siphillipssport) July 9, 2026
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