TEAMtalk reported that Bournemouth are stepping up their search for potential replacements for Alex Scott ahead of a possible January departure. The outlet said Chelsea are currently viewed as firm favourites to sign Scott, with more than £100million required to take him from Bournemouth in January.
Replacement options under consideration
TEAMtalk reported that Kees Smit and Kenneth Taylor are emerging as potential options for Bournemouth. Tiago Pinto, Bournemouth's president of football operations, is overseeing the search for replacements.
TEAMtalk reported that Bournemouth's recruitment team have been impressed by Smit and Taylor and are monitoring their situations. The outlet added that Bournemouth particularly like Smit and believe a deal can be done with AZ Alkmaar for him.
Smit and Taylor situations
Smit is currently sidelined with a groin injury. TEAMtalk reported that Smit is understood to be open to a move in January, and that a move to the Vitality Stadium is believed to appeal to him.
Taylor joined Lazio in January and has settled well into life in Italy, making a positive impression during his time in Serie A. Lazio are currently flying high in the Italian top flight, with Taylor playing a major role in their campaign.
TEAMtalk reported that Brighton have also been monitoring Taylor this season and have been impressed by what they have seen.
Another player on Bournemouth's radar
TEAMtalk reported that Boca Juniors teenager Tomas Aranda is another player to have caught Bournemouth's eye.
Scott's January outlook
TEAMtalk reported, citing club sources, that Scott could leave in January. The outlet said Bournemouth are prepared to allow Scott to choose his next destination, although the club have not fully given up on keeping him.
TEAMtalk reported that Chelsea are huge admirers of Scott and have emerged as frontrunners to sign him. Chelsea attempted to sign Lamine Camara to replace Enzo Fernandez, but that deal collapsed on deadline day, and Scott has emerged as the club's new top midfield target.
TEAMtalk reported on 26 October that Bill Foley is set to make another contract offer to Scott that would make him the highest-paid player in Bournemouth's history. Scott has already rejected one record-breaking offer from Bournemouth.