Chelsea are leading the race to sign Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, according to reports. The Telegraph says the Blues are at the front of the queue for the 23-year-old, with Liverpool and Arsenal also interested. Chelsea had a 64-million-pound bid rejected in the summer and remain keen, though Bournemouth do not want to sell in January.

Scott’s stock has risen sharply after a fine start to the season and an impressive England breakthrough. He made his senior debut as a substitute in the 2-0 win over Czechia, then started the 7-0 thrashing of Croatia on Saturday. England coach Thomas Tuchel called him “the complete package,” praising his smooth ball control and decision-making.

Scott has two years left on his Bournemouth contract, with talks over a new deal stalled. The Cherries, balancing a first European campaign, see him as central to their plans. A summer move looks the likelier outcome.

Bournemouth signed Scott from Bristol City, where he came through the academy ranks.