Chelsea are reportedly leading the race to sign AS Monaco star Lamine Camara, as per Football Insider.
After being impressed by the 22-year-old’s performances for Metz, the Red and Whites decided to purchase him a couple of years ago, and he has established himself as a key starter.
In 31 appearances across all competitions, the youngster made seven goal contributions last campaign. This season, he has enjoyed a promising start, helping his side win the first four matches in all tournaments.
Having proven his worth in club football, Camara has secured his place in the Senegal national team’s starting line-up.
Now, Football Insider state that with Enzo Fernandez increasingly likely to leave before the transfer deadline, Chelsea have identified Camara as the top target to reinforce the midfield department.
The Blues have made progress in talks in recent days to seal the deal; as a result, although several other Premier League clubs are also interested in him, Xabi Alonso’s side are currently the frontrunners in this race. They are even rapidly closing in on the deal.
Camara is valued at around £34m by Transfermarkt and still has a contract until 2029. So, Monaco are in a strong position to demand a big fee to let him leave late in this window.
Camara to Chelsea
The African is a right-footed, energetic defensive midfielder by trait but is also comfortable in the box-to-box role. Furthermore, he can provide cover in the CAM role if needed.
He is dynamic, technically sound, can play threading passes between the lines and is efficient in defensive contributions.
Following Andrey Santos’ departure, Chelsea have signed Jordan Henderson. If Fernandez ultimately leaves before the deadline, the West London club would be left with Moisés Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, Dario Essugo and Henderson as specialist midfield options.
However, Caicedo picked up an injury against Brighton and Hove Albion last weekend. Therefore, Chelsea could do with signing a new midfielder.
Camara is a talented player and possesses the potential to reach the top. So, he might be a shrewd acquisition for Chelsea should they purchase him.
However, it is going to be…
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