Man Utd and Arsenal locked in £40million transfer battle as duo hold talks over deal

Bitter rivals Manchester United and Arsenal are locked in a battle to sign Alex Scott.

The England and Bournemouth midfielder is a target of up to eight clubs this summer. Newcastle United, Tottenham and Everton are also keen on Scott.

But United are Arsenal are now in pole position to land Scott in a £40million deal. It's understood Scott's representatives have held talks with both clubs, and that he will make a decision on his future in the next fortnight.

Scott is said to favour a move to the Emirates, but is worried about how much game time he will get for Mikel Arteta's English champions.

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The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the brightest midfield talents in English football. He was instrumental in helping the Cherries secure European football last season.

Scott was also named in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for games against Serbia and Albania last season, but didn't make an appearance. He was then asked to join Tuchel's men for their preparation camp in Florida ahead of the World Cup.

United have strengthened midfield with the signings of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos in recent weeks.

Michael Carrick is still keen to add a third in this area, but United are not prepared to get into a bidding war with Arsenal over Scott.