SerpApi.Org
Liverpool has shown interest in Bournemouth winger Alex Scott this summer - and a path to sign the player has seemingly just opened up.
The player, 22, has been chased by several big-hitters in the Premier League this year with Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United also believed to be keeping track of the playmaker. Scott has been with the England camp during the World Cup which has allowed him time to take stock of his options.
And now Sky Sports are reporting this morning that Scott has been offered, and rejected, a new contract from the Cherries as he weighs up what may be next in his career.
New Reds boss Andoni Iraola worked with the youngster during his time at the Vitality Stadium and brought him on to become a key player for the club. And the Spaniard has reportedly been plotting a reunion as he understands the potential from the player and the value he could offer down the line.
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Scott has reportedly been offered multiple offers from discussions had with Bournemouth but he has, as yet, turned all of them down. And it has been claimed he is looking for his next challenge after showing no indication that he wants fresh terms.
Scott is currently tied down for another two years but his lack of enthusiasm for an extension could force his club's hand this summer as they seek the maximum amount for his services.
There is apparently an eye-watering $107million price tag placed on his head by his club which might spook some sides unwilling to part with that sort of money. Liverpool is not considered one of the frontrunners for Scott this summer but things can change quickly with other transfer options emerging for each club.
Central midfield has already become a significant position this summer with the likes of Sandro Tonali, Elliott Anderson and Youri Tielemans making moves to Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and Manchester United respectively.
Scott was desperately close to making Thomas Tuchel's England roster for the World Cup in the USA only to narrowly miss out. He did still travel for the tournament, however.
The defensive-minded star made 39 appearances across all competitions last season with four goals and one assist to his name.
He became a mainstay within Iraola's starting XI and that's where the links to Anfield have come from.
But what has Scott the player himself said about Iraola the coach?
"He is obviously a great manager, you see what we have done as a club at Bournemouth and how we have progressed over the three seasons he was with us," Scott said earlier this year.
"I think the way we press out of possession is very aggressive, maybe similar to the early Klopp teams Liverpool had, that fierce aggressiveness and pressing with the wingers."
He added: "The manager [Iraola] has been amazing for me, working with me going forward, defensively, being more aggressive, and that is the reason I played most games this season."
