Bournemouth have shifted their position on Alex Scott, signalling a willingness to allow the England midfielder to leave Vitality Stadium in the January transfer window — provided a significant offer materialises and the club's Premier League standing allows it.

The 23-year-old has been seeking an exit since turning down two contract extensions at the end of last season. For much of the recent international break, the Cherries maintained he was unavailable, but a final round of talks with Scott's representatives has altered the club's thinking.

Big six interest — and Chelsea's £64m bid

Scott attracted attention from across England's top flight during the summer, with every member of the Premier League's so-called "big six" understood to have made contact to varying degrees. Bournemouth rebuffed all approaches and instructed clubs not to submit formal bids or approach the player directly.

Chelsea pushed hardest, lodging an initial offer of £60m that rose to £64m with add-ons — a bid Bournemouth rejected outright. Chelsea and Liverpool are said to still hold an interest heading into January. Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham, however, have since moved on to alternative targets.

Liverpool's advantage

Liverpool could hold a structural edge in any pursuit. Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola maintains strong personal relationships with officials at his former club, including Scott himself, which may smooth negotiations if Liverpool decide to make a firm move.

Chelsea, meanwhile, have reportedly received encouragement from Scott's camp that a deal could be welcomed from their end.

Injury and contract situation

Any transfer will be complicated by Scott's current fitness. He is sidelined for at least a month after suffering a thigh injury while on England duty — sustained during their 7-0 victory over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League.

Scott remains on the contract he signed when Bournemouth brought him from Bristol City in 2023 for £25m, a deal that runs until 2028. His table position caveat means that if Bournemouth find themselves in a relegation battle come January, they may yet decide to keep him — whatever the offer on the table.