Norwich are the latest club to join the transfer race for Bristol City starlet Alex Scott as speculation over his future continues to intensify, according to reports.
Over the weekend, it was claimed how Tottenham and Leeds had sent scouts to watch the midfielder and makeshift right wing-back in action against Stoke on Good Friday.
Now Football League World have reported how the Canaries are looking toward Scott in the summer transfer window as they prepare to rebuild their side ahead of their inevitable relegation. Norwich will have the benefit of parachute payments to help cover the costs of their drop to the Championship although it seems unlikely they will have the funds to meet City's asking price.
Scott has a contract at Ashton Gate until 2025 and therefore City will feel no pressure to accept or entertain offers for the 18-year-old. However, manager Nigel Pearson has previously admitted every player has a price and with the club's current financial predicament, the club know they may have to accept an offer if it's too good to turn down.
The Mirror recently wrote how Scott is valued at £10million although a player of his potential will undoubtedly attract high add-on fees that will raise his transfer value as the player progresses.
When City sold Adam Webster to Brighton for £20m, City included a sell-on clause believed to be in the region of 10 and 20 per cent. The Robins will also be aware that the growing interest in Scott's signature will only provide them with more negotiating power.
Scott, who broke his nose in a collision against Derby, has enjoyed a brilliant breakthrough season under Pearson having emerged as one of the first names on the team-sheet following his run of form.
The 18-year-old only made three appearances last season but has turned out 36 times this time around, playing in midfield and filling the void at wing-back with Pearson failing to find a solution to the problem position.
In February, it was reported how both Leicester and Everton were keeping an eye on Scott with West Ham also reportedly sending scouts to see him in action earlier in the season. It is reported the number of clubs monitoring his availability is "lengthy."
Scott's stock could also rise in the summer if he is selected for the England Under-19 European Championship tournament due to kick-off in June. He was called up to the squad in March but was forced to pull out with an ankle injury.
Earlier this year, assistant Curtis Fleming was keen to emphasise that Scott's development is best suited to staying at Ashton Gate where he can play regular, consistent football and added the club had not even considered cashing in on one of their prized assets.
That perhaps can't be said for Han-Noah Massengo whose position at the club remains uncertain beyond the summer. With a contract expiring in 2023, City can't afford or be prepared to let him leave for free and will therefore have to sell at the end of the season in order to raise funds and reinvest in the rest of the squad.
A contract is on the table for the 20-year-old midfielder and has been for months but an ongoing reluctance to extend his stay means a departure seems increasingly likely.
Reports in France last week suggested Lyon have been closely monitoring his situation while Freiburg were willing to pay £6m to sign him in January.
SIGN UP: For our daily Robins newsletter, bringing you the latest from Ashton Gate
