Arsenal have made exploratory contact over a potential move for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott. The 23-year-old England international has just 18 months remaining on his contract and has turned down new deals, alerting several Premier League rivals.

Liverpool and Chelsea are also keen on Scott, with all three clubs understood to be testing the market to see what it would take for Bournemouth to sell. The Cherries have little desire to part with a key player in January as they chase a Champions League place, but a substantial offer could force their hand given the player's contract situation. "The initial enquiries are understood to be exploratory, with the three clubs seeking to establish the market conditions that would persuade Bournemouth to sell a player who has indicated he is not willing to sign a new contract," a report noted.

Bournemouth rejected multiple offers from Chelsea around £70m last summer and value Scott highly, factoring in a 20% sell-on fee owed to Bristol City. The club's negotiating position remains strong, but they acknowledge a reality. "However, a sufficiently substantial offer in January would be considered, given Scott has just 18 months remaining on his contract and his value is likely to fall significantly in the summer."

While Arsenal would prefer a summer move, a bidding war in January could force their hand. The Gunners, who sit first in the Premier League with 27 points from 10 games, are assessing their midfield options. Their next challenge is a trip to face 12th-placed Newcastle on 21 November, continuing a strong run of form that has seen them win four of their last five matches.

Chelsea have long been seen as frontrunners for Scott, but Liverpool's interest is now considered serious, potentially aided by manager Andoni Iraola's past connection to the player. Tottenham and Manchester City also showed interest last summer before moving for other targets. Any move for Scott would represent a major investment, with fees potentially reaching nine figures and the player's wages likely to increase significantly from his current reported £50,000-a-week.

More detail at liverpoolfc.com