Premier League Champions, Arsenal are reportedly considering making a move for Bournemouth’s Alex Scott as a perfect alternative to Bruno Guimarães. The Gunners are keen on solidifying their central midfield with Guimarães as the main target, topping Arteta’s wishlist, alongside Alex Scott, Sandro Tonali, and Ayyoub Bouaddi.
Already, Newcastle have rejected Arsenal’s first £55m bid for Guimarães, who has been outstanding at the ongoing World Cup tournament, proving to be a defender with purpose while remaining a surgical attacker. The Magpies are valuing their skipper at £100m, a figure that Arsenal could possibly match, but the truth remains that Newcastle is not ready to let him go, considering Sandro Tonali is already leaning towards a move to Tottenham Hotspur.
According to an Arsenal insider, the Gunners’ technical director, Andrea Berta, has on several occasions made contact with the Cherries, inquiring about a possible deal for the 22-year-old this summer. But as is the common response to such interests from top clubs like Arsenal, the Cherries seem very reluctant to release the £65m star and are working around the clock to tie him down to a long-term contract to give them the edge at the negotiating table.
🚨 Andrea Berta has made contact multiple times regarding Alex Scott to explore his situation. There was a feeling a deal could be secured at around £65m, which is seen as good value. Bournemouth’s stance is that Scott is currently NOT for sale at any price. 🕵️♂️🏴 [@HandofArsenal] pic.twitter.com/hBjxcXqxlM
Why Alex Scott Could Be a Better Deal than Guimarães
There’s no doubt Bruno Guimarães is one of the best midfielders today. He has proved himself both at club level and for his country. At the World Cup 2026, he has 3 assists in their first 3 group matches and has been combative at the back, displaying all-round quality.
Scott could just be a better deal.
First, it’s wise for Arsenal to stop being fixated on Guimarães, as Newcastle wouldn’t be willing to release another key midfielder amidst Tonali’s imminent departure.
Another important talking point is age. Guimarães is turning 29 while Scott is just 22. While the Brazilian is proven artillery, Arsenal would be in a better place with a younger lad if they are keen on building a long-term midfield solution while also providing immediate squad depth.
Scott had 37 appearances in the Premier League, finishing with 3 goals and 1 assist, which is impressive. Interestingly, he bagged the winner in April when Bournemouth floored Arsenal at the Emirates. On the other hand, Guimarães played 29 matches with 9 goals and 5 assists. The young lad also matches Guimarães in many other areas, and considering he is still learning, the potential can’t be understated.
Then comes the aspect of finances. Already, the Magpies have rejected Arsenal’s initial bid of £55m, with reports suggesting that Newcastle are valuing their man at £100m. This is a different Arsenal that is not afraid of spending, having splashed over £100m for Declan Rice. But they might not go that route this time around if they can save almost half the perceived value of Guimarães. It’s understood that the Cherries could be looking for around £65m if they were to part ways with Scott.
For now, it is hard to tell how things will roll out. Already, Arsenal’s bid had been rejected, but that is not the end, as they might step up their bid if they are really keen on the Brazilian. The Cherries could also be considering cashing in on their youngster.
One thing remains clear, though. Tonali’s situation will have a big impact on all of this. If he leaves, it will be hard for Newcastle to release Guimarães, but if he stays, Newcastle could consider an improved bid for Bruno from Arsenal. But as it stands, Scott stands a chance to be the next signing at the Emirates.
