Chelsea have made a late move for Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara as they prepare for what could be a dramatic conclusion to the transfer window.
The Blues have now tested Monaco’s resolve with a sizeable offer for the 22-year-old, while his potential arrival appears to be closely linked to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Enzo Fernández.
Chelsea Submit Bid for Camara
Chelsea have submitted a €45 million (£38.5 million) bid for Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, according to Fabrizio Romano, although the proposal has been rejected by the Ligue 1 side.
The 22-year-old is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge, but sources indicate Chelsea’s current offer is not enough to convince Monaco to sanction his departure.
Romano wrote on Instagram: “Chelsea just sent €45m official bid to Monaco for Lamine Camara.
“Proposal considered too low by Monaco but talks are ongoing, definitely one to watch if Enzo Fernández leaves the club with Manchester City in talks with Chelsea since last night.”
That makes Camara one of the names to watch during the final hours of the window, particularly with Fernández’s future still unresolved.
Manchester City have stepped up their pursuit of the Argentine and are now negotiating directly with Chelsea. Fernández is believed to want the move, while the Blues are prepared to sanction his departure provided their valuation is met.
Chelsea have reportedly been looking for more than the £120 million they originally paid Benfica for Fernández, although it remains to be seen whether City are willing to reach that figure.
The London club are also pursuing Roma midfielder Manu Koné, but there had been no breakthrough in those discussions as of Tuesday morning.
With the deadline approaching, Chelsea could therefore be preparing for a major midfield reshuffle, with Camara potentially arriving as Fernández’s replacement if the Manchester City move goes through.
