Alex Scott transfer could create Arsenal dilemma for Lewis-Skelly

Arsenal's search for another central midfielder could have consequences beyond strengthening Mikel Arteta's squad, with Myles Lewis-Skelly's long-term role potentially becoming one of the biggest talking points if a deal is completed.

While Newcastle United's Bruno Guimarães remains one of Arsenal's priority targets, Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott has also emerged as a serious option. Reports suggest the Cherries would demand around £80 million, but Arsenal remain optimistic about their chances despite Bournemouth's reluctance to sell.

If the Gunners eventually land Scott, the move could significantly increase competition in one area where Lewis-Skelly finally began establishing himself last season.

Strengthening midfield is one of Arsenal's main objectives this summer as Arteta looks to build on last season's Premier League title-winning campaign.

Although Bruno Guimarães is widely regarded as the club's preferred target, negotiations with Newcastle United remain difficult.

That has encouraged Arsenal to continue exploring alternatives.

According to recent reports, Scott remains firmly on Andrea Berta's shortlist despite Bournemouth's determination to keep the England Under-21 international.

The Cherries are reportedly hoping to tie the midfielder to a new contract but understand that sustained interest from elite clubs could test their resolve later in the transfer window.

Lewis-Skelly enjoyed an impressive finish to last season after gradually earning Arteta's trust in central midfield.

Although many supporters initially viewed him as a left-back, the academy graduate featured increasingly as a left-sided number eight during the closing weeks of the campaign, including in Arsenal's Champions League final.

That development appeared to offer a clear pathway into the first team.

However, Scott operates in a remarkably similar area of the pitch.

Both players are comfortable receiving possession under pressure, progressing play through midfield and driving attacks forward, meaning they would likely compete for many of the same opportunities.

Lewis-Skelly's biggest breakthrough came once Arteta trusted him in midfield rather than defence. That progress makes Arsenal's interest in another high-level central midfielder particularly significant. However, interest in Scott should not automatically be interpreted as a lack of faith in Lewis-Skelly, especially given the club's desire to compete across multiple competitions.

At 21, Scott already possesses considerably more Premier League experience than Lewis-Skelly.

The Bournemouth midfielder has continued developing into one of the division's most highly-rated young central midfielders, combining progressive ball carrying with creativity in the final third.

His four league goals last season also demonstrate an attacking output Lewis-Skelly is still developing after spending much of his early career in deeper positions.

Those qualities help explain why Arsenal remain interested despite Bournemouth's reported £80 million valuation.

Whether the Gunners ultimately decide to invest such a substantial fee may depend on developments surrounding Guimarães and other midfield targets over the coming weeks.

Arsenal are expected to continue assessing multiple midfield options before making a final decision on their priority target. Should negotiations for Bruno Guimarães stall, attention could increasingly turn towards Scott. Any major midfield signing would also influence how Arteta manages Lewis-Skelly's development during the new season as Arsenal prepare to compete on multiple fronts.

Would signing Alex Scott improve Arsenal's midfield, or should Mikel Arteta continue placing his trust in Myles Lewis-Skelly?