Liverpool’s pursuit of Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara has been given a potential boost, with Chelsea understood to have abandoned plans to return for the Senegal international.
Camara came close to joining Chelsea on the final day of the summer transfer window, but Monaco ended negotiations at a late stage despite an agreement having reportedly been reached.
Chelsea are now said to have turned their attention to Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, who has moved ahead of Camara on their list of preferred January targets.
Liverpool’s route to Lamine Camara appears clearer
The change in Chelsea’s plans could leave Liverpool with less competition for Camara. The Reds have maintained a strong interest in the 21-year-old and have recently contacted his representatives to ask to be kept informed of developments at Monaco.
A January transfer is not guaranteed, but Liverpool are now regarded as one of the best-placed Premier League clubs to sign the midfielder.
Camara and Scott are both understood to feature prominently on Liverpool’s midfield shortlist. Chelsea’s decision to prioritise Scott could therefore separate the two clubs’ plans in the transfer market.
The main obstacle may now be Monaco. Camara is under contract until 2029 and remains an important starter, meaning the French club has little incentive to accept a reduced fee during the January window.
Any move could require compromises from Liverpool, the player and Monaco. However, Chelsea’s withdrawal removes a club that came within hours of signing Camara and gives Liverpool a clearer opportunity to pursue the midfielder.
