Manchester United pursue Bournemouth’s Alex Scott as Ederson deal collapses

Manchester United have turned their attention to Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott after a proposed move for Atalanta’s Ederson collapsed during the summer transfer window.

The Old Trafford hierarchy are desperately prioritising central midfield additions ahead of the demanding new season.

Options in the middle of the park have been severely depleted following the departure of Casemiro and a serious knee injury sustained by Manuel Ugarte.

An agreement for Brazilian international Ederson appeared close before negotiations abruptly broke down, forcing the club to explore alternative options.

Bournemouth demand premium fee

The Red Devils are now actively evaluating a move for Scott, though the Cherries remain determined to retain their highly-rated prospect.

Bournemouth intend to tie the dynamic playmaker to a new long-term contract, which would likely include a structured release clause.

If the 20-year-old refuses fresh terms, his current employers will reportedly demand a steep valuation in the region of £80m.

According to sports journalist Ben Jacobs, the 20-time English champions are monitoring the situation closely.

I’m told the valuation for Alex Scott, if he doesn’t sign a new deal, will be in and around £80 million.

Let’s see whether Manchester United move there, because the player is high in their thinking.

Transfer frustrations mount at Old Trafford

United have adopted a cautious financial approach this summer to avoid heavily overpaying for new recruits.

However, this strict strategy has led to mounting concern as primary targets continue to slip through their grasp.

The collapsed Ederson deal marks the third high-profile midfield pursuit to fail, following unsuccessful attempts to land Mateus Fernandes and Elliot Anderson.

With time running out in the transfer window, the pressure is building on the Old Trafford recruitment team to finalise their necessary reinforcements.