Manchester United have reportedly made contact with AFC Bournemouth over a deal to sign midfielder Alex Scott, according to The Athletic.
New manager Michael Carrick has identified the engine room as a priority area to address after being appointed to lead the club.
United currently have Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro, and Manuel Ugarte as options available to deploy in the deeper midfield roles.
Mason Mount can provide additional cover in midfield if needed, although his natural position is as a number ten.
Mainoo recently committed his future to his boyhood club by signing a new contract that will keep him at United until 2031.
However, Casemiro is set to depart as a free agent at the end of this month, leaving a significant gap in United’s midfield options.
United are also said to be open to selling Ugarte after he struggled to break into Carrick’s starting line-up this season.
Reports suggest United are considering purchasing at least two midfielders, with the possibility of a third signing if Ugarte is sold.
Atalanta midfielder Ederson has been reported as close to joining Carrick’s side, while Scott has also emerged as a target after impressing with his recent performances.
Bournemouth have been in discussions with Scott’s representatives about a new deal, with the 22-year-old’s current contract running until 2028.
Despite those efforts, Scott is considered highly unlikely to extend his stay at Vitality Stadium, potentially leaving the Cherries ready to cash in this summer.
Scott is described as a technically gifted box-to-box midfielder who is also capable of operating efficiently in a defensive midfield role.
Transfermarkt value the Englishman at around £35m, and securing his signature this summer would represent a significant addition for United’s midfield rebuild under Carrick.