Wolverhampton Wanderers 'ready to step up efforts to sign Bristol City midfielder Alex Scott'

The England Under-20 international has emerged as one of the star players in the Championship over the past two years, despite his club failing to challenge for promotion.

Scott has contributed a total of five goals and seven assists from 80 outings in the second tier since the start of 2021-22, also gaining admirers for his general performances.

With two years left on his contract at Ashton Gate, Bristol City do not have to be in a rush to part ways with the 19-year-old, yet there is an acknowledgement that he will eventually be sold.

Since speculation begun to intensify, widespread reports have indicated that the Robins are prepared to hold out for £25m, aware that a bidding war could realistically ensue.

As it stands, though, Bristol City are yet to receive their desired asking price, Bournemouth recently said to be the most likely to meet their valuation.

The Cherries are said to have already had an opening bid rejected ahead of further talks, yet it appears that they will now face stronger competition from a Premier League rival.

According to The Telegraph, Wolves are prepared to formally go close to Bristol City's demands in order to try to tempt them into a sale.

The report claims that the West Midlands outfit are willing to pay in excess of £20m for Scott, a reported improvement on the £18m offer that they lodged last month.

Ever since Julen Lopetegui's arrival at Molineux, it has been suggested that the Spaniard is a fan of Scott's qualities and would like to add him to his squad.

There is urgency at Wolves to sign a new midfielder courtesy of Ruben Neves having been allowed to depart the club for Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal for £47m.

A substantial portion of that fee has gone towards meeting FFP criteria, yet the sales of Conor Coady and Nathan Collins should ensure that Lopetegui can now make a number of new additions.

Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United have also been linked with Scott, but there is no suggestion that either club have followed up their initial interest.