Chelsea stance on signing new midfielder revealed

Chelsea have already earmarked their prime target to bolster their midfield department ahead of the winter transfer window.

The Blues have had a mixed start to the Premier League campaign and have picked up only 16 points after 10 matches played.

The hierarchy are likely to back manager Xabi Alonso with funds, and a new midfielder could be signed at the turn of the year.

Arsenal's Martin Zubimendi and Bournemouth's Alex Scott have been mentioned as possible targets for the manager.

However, the Blues have a clear stance on signing Scott, having previously failed to land his services during the summer.

A £64m bid was not sufficient to convince the Cherries back then, and they are likely to demand as much as £100m for a winter sale.

Liverpool are likewise interested in the former Bristol City man, but Scott apparently has a preference to move to London with the Blues.

Arsenal are unlikely to provide competition this winter. They are said to prefer a summer move after parting ways with a midfielder.