Chelsea Keep Alex Scott Option Open Amid Fernández Uncertainty

Chelsea are likely to pursue a replacement for Enzo Fernández if he leaves Stamford Bridge before the September 1 deadline, with Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott among the central midfield options on the club’s radar.

Scott remains of interest to Chelsea in the final weeks of the summer transfer window, although a move for the Bournemouth player is only likely if Fernández departs.

Chelsea’s position on Fernández

Fernández’s future remains uncertain ahead of the deadline. Chelsea gave Manchester City an unofficial deadline last week, telling them they could sign the midfielder for £120million if a deal was completed by 5pm on Friday. No official offer arrived before that time.

The deadline was understood to be linked to Chelsea’s £120million price tag, which is now off the table. Manchester City’s interest in the 25-year-old has not gone away, with reports suggesting the club could still test Chelsea’s resolve.

Chelsea are relaxed about the situation and are willing to keep Fernández for another season. Xabi Alonso has publicly confirmed that he wants the Argentina international in his squad. Fernández returned to Stamford Bridge at the weekend, where some supporters booed him while others cheered and chanted his name.

Alex Scott remains on Chelsea’s radar

Chelsea had a £64million offer for Scott rejected by Bournemouth last month. Sources have indicated that the 22-year-old is not for sale this summer, and Bournemouth insiders declined to place a valuation on him because of the club’s stance.

Scott is one of several central midfield options Chelsea are monitoring. Bournemouth are adamant that they intend to keep hold of him until at least January, even amid interest from numerous members of the so-called big six.

The midfielder was also said to have turned down an offer to extend his contract at the Vitality Stadium. Bournemouth’s position means any potential move would be difficult, even if Chelsea decide to pursue him following a Fernández departure.

Chelsea’s replacement plan

Fernández has been an important part of Chelsea’s midfield, and his exit before the end of the window would leave the club seeking cover in central areas. Scott and other midfield options remain on Chelsea’s radar as the situation develops.

Nothing confirms that Fernández will leave Chelsea. The club are happy to keep him, while Alonso wants him in the squad. However, Chelsea are expected to try to replace the midfielder should he depart before the September 1 deadline, with any move for Scott dependent on Bournemouth changing their current stance.