Dean White

Thu 22 June 2023 7:40, UK

West Ham are contemplating whether to meet Bristol City’s £25million valuation of midfielder Alex Scott, according to Sky Sports.

The broadcaster reported on Wednesday (22 June) that the Robins are desperate to get Scott, 19, tied down to a new contract at Ashton Gate but they “may have to cash in on their crown jewel sooner rather than later”.

Scott, who won the Championship’s Young Player of the Year award last season and is wanted by Wolves as well as West Ham, has been praised highly by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola and former Bristol City teammate Dan Bentley.

As quoted by Sky Sports, Bentley said: “If I was asked, I’d say get the chequebook out.

“He’s an absolutely phenomenal player with the world at his feet, I’ve seen all the plaudits recently, he can go all the way and so he should because he’s a magnificent player.”

Huge praise

While Bentley may be a bit biased about his former teammate, Guardiola’s praise is something special.

Scott has been likened to Etihad star Jack Grealish for the way he plays and the stats back it up, too.

Last season in the Championship, the ‘Guernsey Grealish’ won more fouls than any other player (96), which is something the Man City and England star would no doubt be proud of.

Scott also completed 46 take-ons, which was the 11th-most in the second tier and also impressed off the ball. He won possession in the attacking third 24 times, ranking him 10th, and 77 tackles, ranking him 13th out of all Championship midfielders.

If David Moyes wants a versatile, bright spark to add to his midfield options this summer then Scott is the player he wants.

Scott can shine in a high press or in a game where the Hammers are dominant in possession. He can win set-pieces that can be taken advantage of if someone like James Ward-Prowse would be signed, as well.

The money gained from selling Declan Rice this summer will go a long way.

Landing Scott and Ward-Prowse would be an incredible bit of business by Moyes and co.