Alex Scott's England exit clears path for Manchester United's £80m midfield move

Manchester United are poised to pursue Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott this summer after the 22-year-old’s departure from England’s pre-World Cup squad opened the door for transfer talks and a potential medical.

Scott was among a group of players taken to the United States by England manager Thomas Tuchel for pre-tournament friendlies, alongside Liverpool’s Rio Ngumoha, Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri and Fulham’s Josh King. Following the conclusion of those fixtures, Scott is set to leave the England camp and return to the UK — a development that could directly benefit United’s recruitment drive.

United had been linked with Newcastle’s Elliot Anderson, but The Athletic reported the club will not enter a £120 million bidding war for the midfielder. Instead, manager Michael Carrick is focusing on more attainable targets, with Scott and West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes both identified as realistic options. Each player is expected to cost in the region of £80 million.

Bournemouth signed Scott from Bristol City for around £25 million in the summer of 2023, and he has since established himself as a reliable Premier League operator. His step-sister, Maya Le Tissier, captains Manchester United’s women’s side.

The significance of Scott’s return from the United States is largely logistical. Players still involved in the World Cup have their availability for medicals and contract discussions governed by their national team’s medical staff, meaning a transfer can be difficult to complete mid-tournament. Scott’s early exit removes that obstacle.

United are not alone in their interest. New Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has also been linked with a move for the Bournemouth playmaker, adding urgency to Carrick’s pursuit as he looks to reshape his midfield ahead of next season.