Bournemouth would consider selling England midfielder Alex Scott in January if they receive an offer of about £100m and believe his departure would not damage their Premier League survival prospects.
The 23-year-old has been seeking a move away from Vitality Stadium since turning down two contract proposals at the end of last season. Bournemouth maintained throughout the recent international break that Scott was not available for transfer.
However, following a final round of discussions with the player’s representatives, senior sources say the club are now prepared to approve a sale if their valuation is met.
Bournemouth’s position in the Premier League will also be a factor. If they are near the bottom of the table, the club could decide Scott is needed to help them avoid relegation and refuse to sanction a move, even if an appropriate offer arrives.
The change represents a notable reversal after Bournemouth rejected approaches from a number of clubs during the summer. Every member of the Premier League’s so-called “big six” is believed to have made contact to varying degrees.
Clubs were told not to submit bids or approach Scott directly, although Chelsea tested Bournemouth’s position with an initial £60m offer that could have risen to £64m through add-ons. That proposal was rejected.
Chelsea and Liverpool are still thought to be interested in the midfielder. Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham have instead turned their attention to other targets since the summer.
Liverpool could be well placed if they decide to pursue a deal. Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has close relationships with his former club, as well as with Scott and members of Bournemouth’s leadership.
Chelsea have also previously received encouragement from Scott’s representatives to continue exploring a transfer.
Scott is currently expected to be sidelined for at least a month after suffering a thigh injury during England’s 7-0 Nations League victory over Croatia.
He remains on the contract agreed when he moved to Bournemouth from Bristol City in 2023 for a fee of £25m. That deal runs until 2028.