Former Chelsea player Wayne Bridge has criticised the club for signing Jordan Henderson instead of Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott this summer.
The Blues sought midfield reinforcements throughout the summer but ultimately missed out on England international Scott.
Bridge spoke to Checker ahead of this weekend’s league clash between Chelsea and Arsenal, giving his assessment of the Blues’ transfer activities.
He expressed his admiration for Scott and questioned Chelsea’s decision to sign Henderson instead.
“I really like Alex Scott. He’s consistent for Bournemouth, works hard, gets goals, and is a technically gifted player under pressure. The only thing with him going to Chelsea is that I would have signed him instead of Henderson, for sure,” he said.
Chelsea made several bids for the 23-year-old Scott, including one worth around £68 million, but they were rejected by Bournemouth.
The midfielder was clearly a target for Xabi Alonso’s side, but Bournemouth remained determined to keep him.
Chelsea instead opted to sign 36-year-old Henderson to add experience to their squad after failing in an attempt to acquire Granit Xhaka for the same purpose.
Henderson joined the Blues on a free transfer from Brentford following a mutual agreement to terminate his contract.
Chelsea are reportedly considering another move for Scott, possibly next summer, after he declined a contract extension offer from the Cherries.
With two years remaining on his current deal, Bournemouth could be under pressure to sell him next summer or risk losing him for nothing when his contract expires.