Manchester United have identified Bournemouth star Alex Scott as a player who fits their midfield recruitment strategy, according to the Manchester Evening News.
United are still looking to strengthen their midfield options despite agreeing a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson last month. It is understood that they aim to secure multiple midfield reinforcements this summer.
The Red Devils were keen on new Tottenham Hotspur signing Mateus Fernandes, but were priced out of a move for the Portuguese star.
Man United are focused on midfielders who are highly technical and have ‘the mobility and physicality to get around the pitch’, rather than naturally defensive-minded ones.
United believe Scott ‘ticks all those boxes’ and may now be ready to step up their interest in the English midfielder.
Scott, who has been described as ‘amazing‘ by current Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola, made 22 appearances as a central midfielder, 12 as a defensive midfielder and three as an attacking midfielder last season, highlighting his versatility.
However, there is room for improvement in his passing. Among central midfielders across Europe’s top seven leagues, Scott ranked below the 50th percentile for forward passes, key passes and progressive passes.
In our view, Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga is a better fit for United’s reported recruitment profile than Scott.
Camavinga ranked higher than the 50th percentile for the major attacking and defensive metrics for midfielders last season.
However, the France international is reluctant to leave Madrid. It also remains unclear whether the Spanish giants are willing to listen to offers for him.
That said, if United are convinced by Scott, INEOS must act now to secure his signing, given Arsenal’s interest in him.
The Gunners have already seen their enquiry for the midfielder rejected. The Cherries insist the midfielder is not for sale.
Stats from datamb.football & transfermarkt.com
