Manchester United are reportedly preparing to make a move for AFC Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, according to transfer journalist David Ornstein.
The news comes as new permanent manager Michael Carrick looks to reshape the midfield department at Old Trafford this summer.
Carrick was initially appointed as interim manager following Ruben Amorim’s departure, before being given the permanent role after guiding United to a third-place Premier League finish.
That result secured Champions League football for next season, giving Carrick a strong platform to attract quality signings to the club.
United have already made progress in midfield recruitment, having agreed a deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta ahead of the new campaign.
The club had also been tracking Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, but have cooled their interest after the Tricky Trees placed a £125m price tag on the 23-year-old.
Manchester City were leading the race for Anderson, making it increasingly difficult for United to pursue a deal for the Forest midfielder.
With Anderson effectively ruled out, Ornstein states that United are now shifting their focus toward Scott, while also holding an interest in West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes.
Scott, valued at around £43m by Transfermarkt, is set to enter the final two years of his contract at Bournemouth, and is unlikely to sign a new deal with the Cherries.
That situation could allow United to secure the 22-year-old this summer without a prolonged negotiation with his current club.
Scott is a technically gifted and versatile operator, comfortable in both box-to-box and defensive midfield roles, and can also provide cover in the number ten position.
The Englishman is quick, strong, capable of dribbling past defenders in tight spaces, and contributes effectively in both the attacking and defensive phases of play.
He registered six goal contributions across 39 appearances in all competitions last season, while also helping Bournemouth qualify for the Europa League.
Scott showed genuine quality throughout the campaign and carries significant potential, which could make him a smart addition to Carrick’s evolving squad.
Whether United ultimately follow through with a concrete offer for Scott remains to be seen as the summer transfer window develops.