Mikel Arteta isn’t resting on his Premier League title. With the trophy back in North London, the Arsenal manager is already plotting how to keep it there — and a 22-year-old midfielder from Bournemouth is reportedly at the top of his list.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal hold genuine interest in Alex Scott, the England under-21 standout who turned heads across the league last season. Scott played a central role in Bournemouth’s mid-table finish, showing composure under pressure and an ability to carry the ball through midfield — traits Arteta covets in his system.
At just 22, Scott has already earned his first senior England call-up — that came in November — and was invited to train with Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup prep camp last month, even though he didn’t make the final 26-man squad. Tuchel publicly praised Scott’s attitude and potential, hinting a senior debut could come soon.
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Arteta needs rotation depth behind Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi. Christian Norgaard, who arrived with expectations of providing cover, is reportedly expected to leave after failing to make an impact. That leaves a clear opening for a young, Premier League-ready midfielder who can step into high-intensity matches without a drop-off. Scott, who started 28 league games for Bournemouth last season, fits that brief.
But Arsenal aren’t alone in the chase. Manchester United are also tracking Scott, and Bournemouth are publicly determined to keep him. The Cherries view him as a long-term asset and are unlikely to let him go cheap — especially to a direct rival for European places.
Other Names on the Radar
Arsenal have also been linked with West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, though Manchester United are considered the favorites for the Portuguese midfielder. Meanwhile, Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi — an 18-year-old midfielder who impressed in Morocco’s World Cup opener against Brazil — is another name on Arteta’s shortlist. Bouaddi completed 60 passes and three successful dribbles in that 1-1 draw, showcasing composure beyond his years in a high-stakes match.
The pursuit of Scott, however, seems the most advanced. Arsenal’s recruitment team values his Premier League experience and versatility — he can play as a No. 6, an advanced No. 8, or even out wide if needed. For a squad chasing Champions League glory alongside a title defense, that kind of flexibility is gold.
Whether Bournemouth can hold off both Manchester clubs and Arsenal remains the big question. One thing is clear: Alex Scott’s breakout season has made him one of the most sought-after young English midfielders on the market.
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