Iraola eyes £80m Alex Scott move as Liverpool plot first signing of new era

Andoni Iraola is targeting Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott as his first signing since taking charge at Liverpool, with the South Coast club valuing the 23-year-old at £80 million to deter suitors.

Iraola, who succeeded the sacked Arne Slot after Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League, worked closely with Scott during his time managing Bournemouth and is understood to be a significant admirer of the box-to-box midfielder. Liverpool are not alone in their interest — Chelsea and Manchester United have also been credited with pursuing Scott — but it is Iraola’s personal connection that could prove decisive.

Bournemouth have shown little appetite to sell. The Cherries have built a reputation for extracting substantial fees for their best young talent, having previously moved on Dean Huijsen, Ilya Zabarnyi, Milos Kerkez and Antoine Semenyo. Scott appears next in line, though the club’s £80m valuation may test Liverpool’s willingness to commit.

Scott himself spoke warmly about Iraola’s appointment at Anfield. “I think the way we press out of possession is very aggressive, maybe similar to the early Klopp teams Liverpool had, that fierce aggressiveness and pressing with the wingers,” he said. “I would say he is similar to that. Liverpool fans should definitely be so excited.”

Iraola signed a contract at Liverpool running until the 2027/28 season. He inherits a squad that spent over £450 million last summer on marquee arrivals including Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike and Jeremie Frimpong, yet failed to defend the Premier League title won in 2024/25. Slot did steer the club to Champions League qualification before his dismissal, giving Iraola a platform to build from in his first season.

Whether Bournemouth’s asking price ultimately places Scott beyond Liverpool’s reach remains unclear, though relations between the two clubs are reported to be positive — a factor that could smooth any potential negotiations.