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Bournemouth have informed Arsenal that midfielder Alex Scott will not be leaving the club during the summer transfer window after rejecting an initial enquiry for the highly rated England international.
The Premier League champions are keen to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season, with the 22 year old identified as one of several potential additions.
However, Bournemouth have made it clear they have no intention of selling Scott and are instead focused on securing his long term future. The Cherries are reportedly eager to negotiate a contract extension with the midfielder, whose current deal has two years remaining.
Scott's impressive performances have attracted interest from across the Premier League. Alongside Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea are all believed to be monitoring his situation closely.
Since joining Bournemouth from Bristol City, Scott has continued to establish himself as one of England's brightest young midfielders. His development earned him his first senior England call up in November before he was later included in Thomas Tuchel's extended pre World Cup training camp in Florida. Although he did not feature in a match, his inclusion highlighted his growing reputation at international level.
Arsenal continue to assess several midfield options as they look to reinforce the squad. Newcastle United duo Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali are among the club's leading targets.
Of the two, Guimaraes is currently viewed as the more attainable signing. Tonali's reported valuation has emerged as a significant obstacle for Arsenal, making a deal more complicated.
Meanwhile, Tottenham are stepping up their pursuit of Tonali and are said to be increasingly optimistic about reaching an agreement for the Italy international.
Arsenal are also keeping tabs on other young midfielders across Europe. West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes and Lille prospect Ayyoub Bouaddi have both been monitored as the club continues to evaluate possible additions before the transfer window closes.
Despite strong interest from several top clubs, Bournemouth remain determined to retain Scott for the upcoming campaign. The club views him as a key part of its future and has shown no indication that it is willing to negotiate his departure.
For now, Arsenal will have to turn their attention elsewhere as they continue their search for midfield reinforcements, while Bournemouth remain committed to building around one of their most promising talents.
