Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is reportedly keen to sign both Alex Scott and Eli Junior Kroupi from Bournemouth as he begins to reshape his squad following the departure of Arne Slot. The Spanish tactician has recently begun work at Liverpool’s Kirkby training complex, tasked with returning the club to the top of English football after a fifth-place finish last season.
A perceived lack of physicality in midfield was a contributing factor to Liverpool’s struggles during the 2025/26 campaign, and Iraola is prioritizing strengthening that area of the team. Scott, a 22-year-old midfielder, has emerged as a primary target, with links to Anfield gaining momentum. The player is currently stalling on signing a new contract with Bournemouth, potentially opening the door for a summer transfer.
Transfer journalist Alex Crooks, speaking to talkSPORT, highlighted Scott’s suitability for Liverpool, stating the Reds “certainly had a problem” in midfield last season and that Scott is a player Iraola knows well from their time together at Bournemouth. Bournemouth are attempting to secure Scott’s future with an improved contract offer, but negotiations are complicated by interest from Chelsea and Manchester United.
Scott has been a standout performer for Bournemouth, playing a key role in their qualification for European football and earning a place in Thomas Tuchel’s provisional England squad for the 2026 World Cup. He consistently ranks highly in key defensive metrics, averaging 6.14 recoveries per 90 minutes, placing him in the 88th percentile compared to players in Europe’s top five leagues. Bournemouth value Scott at £60 million or more, but Iraola may see an opportunity to bring the player to Anfield, a move Scott would likely welcome given his successful previous relationship with the manager.
Alongside Scott, Iraola is also interested in bringing winger Eli Junior Kroupi to Liverpool, although Bournemouth are currently resisting offers for their key players, determined to avoid a repeat of last season’s departures. While securing both players may prove challenging, Iraola’s arrival signals a clear intention to build a more physically imposing and dynamic Liverpool team.
