Football Transfers & Rumours
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Andoni Iraola Lines Up Alex Scott Swoop as New Liverpool Boss Targets Bournemouth Midfield Star

3 minutes read
Neil Goulding
Neil Goulding
Senior Sports Reporter
Louis Hobbs
Sports Editor
Liverpool Unveil New Manager Andoni Iraola

Liverpool Unveil New Manager Andoni Iraola by Nikki Dyer - LFC | Getty Images

New Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola is already plotting an ambitious move to bring one of his former Bournemouth favourites to Anfield, with highly-rated midfielder Alex Scott emerging as a major transfer target, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

The England star, who is preparing to represent his country at this summer's World Cup in America, has enjoyed three impressive seasons on the south coast since arriving from Bristol City and remains one of the brightest young midfielders in the Premier League. 

Scott's development under Iraola has not gone unnoticed, with the Spaniard believed to be a huge admirer of the 22-year-old's energy, technical ability and versatility.

SportsBoom understands Liverpool are closely monitoring Scott's situation at Bournemouth after negotiations over a new contract hit a stumbling block. 

The Cherries have been keen to secure the midfielder's long-term future, but talks are understood to have stalled, opening the door to potential suitors.

REUNION

Scott is believed to be open to a fresh challenge and would welcome the opportunity to reunite with the manager who played a major role in his progress at Bournemouth.

The prospect of moving to Anfield is also an attractive one for the England international, despite Liverpool enduring a frustrating campaign that saw them finish fifth in the Premier League and fall short of expectations.

Iraola enjoyed huge success during his time at Bournemouth and helped transform the club into one of the division's most exciting teams.

Scott became a key component of that project, flourishing in the Spaniard's high-energy system and establishing himself as one of the league's most promising young talents.

Liverpool are expected to oversee a significant squad rebuild this summer, and Scott is viewed as the type of player capable of fitting seamlessly into Iraola's plans. 

His ability to play in a variety of midfield roles, combined with his work rate and creativity, makes him an attractive option for the Merseyside giants.

The former Bristol City youngster has attracted attention from several leading clubs in recent months, but Iraola's expected arrival at Anfield could hand Liverpool a significant advantage in the race for his signature.

Athletic Bilbao were reported to have held a preferential position when Iraola announced he would leave Bournemouth, while Manchester United were also linked before they handed Michael Carrick the permanent role, but he ultimately shocked the market by joining Liverpool after Arne Slot was dismissed.

PRIZED ASSET

Bournemouth remain hopeful of reaching an agreement over a new deal and are determined not to lose one of their prized assets without a fight. 

The club values Scott highly and would demand a substantial fee before considering any offers.

However, with contract talks currently at a standstill and Iraola preparing to begin a new chapter at Liverpool, the Reds are keeping a close eye on developments.

And if Liverpool's incoming boss gets his way, Scott could become one of the first major signings of the Iraola era as the Spaniard looks to stamp his mark on the club.

He is hungry to guide the former champions back into contention at the top of English football, while giving the England World Cup hopeful the chance to shine on the biggest stage before potentially sealing a blockbuster move to Merseyside.

Editor's Insight

Louis Hobbs
Louis HobbsSports Editor

Liverpool’s interest in Alex Scott highlights Iraola’s intent to quickly shape the squad with players he knows and trusts, but competition for the midfielder will be strong and any deal is likely to move fast in the market. Keep an eye on the Premier League transfer betting markets.

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Neil Goulding
Neil GouldingSenior Sports Reporter

Neil has been a journalist for longer than he'd care to remember, having written for national newspapers and respected publications for over 25 years. For the last three years he has worked freelance for BBC Sport, working on the production desk as a sub-editor and also as a writer, covering a whole range of sports.