Chelsea Set Sights on Alex Scott Amid Enzo Fernandez Manchester City Transfer Push

Chelsea Target Bournemouth's Alex Scott as Enzo Fernandez Transfer Looms

Chelsea are preparing a major offer for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, anticipating the possible exit of Enzo Fernandez. Meanwhile, Manchester City is making a strong late effort to sign the Argentina international before the transfer window shuts.

Manchester City Intensifies Interest in Fernandez

Reports from The Independent reveal that Chelsea plan to renew their pursuit of Scott after Bournemouth turned down three earlier bids. Manchester City missed a £120 million deadline to acquire Fernandez two weeks ago, but coach Enzo Maresca remains keen to bring the midfielder back to the Etihad Stadium.

With Rodri having moved to Barcelona, City aims to bolster their squad by submitting an official offer for Fernandez soon. Chelsea, aware of this pressure, have sped up their efforts to secure Scott as a replacement.

Bournemouth Hold Firm on Price for Scott

Bournemouth have been firm in their refusal to sell Scott this summer, rejecting bids from Chelsea reportedly up to £68 million. However, sources suggest that an improved offer between £80 million and £90 million could sway Bournemouth before the transfer deadline next Tuesday.

Chelsea would need to use funds from a potential Fernandez sale to meet such a hefty price tag. Fernandez faced boos from some fans during a recent win against Fulham, highlighting the tension surrounding his future in London.

Xabi Alonso Calls for Swift Resolution on Fernandez

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has spoken candidly about the ongoing uncertainty with Fernandez, urging clarity soon. After the Fulham match, Alonso said on BBC's Match of the Day:

"In football, I am not surprised by anything. We will see. My wish is that we know what will happen for the future but we will see this week."

His guarded comments underline the urgency at Stamford Bridge to finalize the midfielder’s situation quickly.

What’s Next in the Transfer Saga?

Manchester City is expected to test Chelsea’s position with a significant formal offer for Fernandez this week. Should City meet Chelsea’s valuation, it would trigger a swift response from the Blues to clinch Scott before the window closes.

• Previous Chelsea bids for Scott: Three rejected offers
• Scott’s current asking price: Between £80 million and £90 million
• Fernandez transfer deadline missed: £120 million bid missed two weeks ago
• City’s squad change: Rodri sold to Barcelona
• Fernandez’s recent fan reaction: Booed during win over Fulham
• Transfer window closing: Next Tuesday