Liverpool Weigh Nmecha as Scott Price Creates Midfield Dilemma

Liverpool Felix Nmecha — Liverpool are weighing a move for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha as an alternative to Alex Scott, with the Bournemouth player’s £100m valuation threatening to price the Anfield club out of a deal. The link to Nmecha emerged after a week in which Liverpool were reported to be in a strong position to sign Scott, only for the numbers involved to raise doubts.

The Scott situation

Scott, an England international, has rejected two new contract offers at Bournemouth, leaving his future at the Vitality Stadium uncertain. Nizaar Kinsella reported earlier this week that Liverpool were well placed to sign the midfielder, but Mark Brus has since suggested the asking price is likely too expensive for the club.

That assessment has pushed attention toward Nmecha, a Germany international who came through Manchester City’s academy and is now 26. Liverpool were linked with him during the summer, and the sense that he is underrated has persisted at Anfield.

Why Nmecha appeals

Nmecha operates primarily as a central midfielder but can also play as a deep-lying midfielder or a number 10. That versatility is understood to appeal to Andoni Iraola, and he has stood out early this season for his passing range and his work in duels, according to Sofascore. Transfermarkt notes his ability to fill different roles in the middle.

Price is part of the calculation. Nmecha would still cost in excess of £75m, but that is below Scott’s £100m figure. Brus has suggested Liverpool could have luck with an opening bid of €90m, worth about £75.9m, although Dortmund have publicly stated that Nmecha is not for sale.

Dortmund’s stance and the timing

Nmecha extended his Dortmund contract earlier this year, strengthening the club’s position. He is reportedly open to returning to English football, which keeps the possibility alive, but there is no indication Dortmund would accept any offer. Whether Liverpool actually bid remains unresolved.

Robert Huth has said Nmecha would suit Liverpool under Iraola. The transfer window does not reopen until January, giving Liverpool weeks to assess the situation and decide whether to prioritise Nmecha over Scott.