Chelsea has reached a preliminary agreement with AS Monaco to acquire midfielder Lamine Camara for €45 million (£39 million), including bonuses, as reported by journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
However, the finalization of the deal is pending negotiations on the payment structure and the inclusion of specific bonuses.
Camara played in Monaco’s Ligue 1 match against Marseille on Sunday, indicating that the transfer is not yet finalized.
The 22-year-old player has also been presented to Liverpool, but they are unlikely to make a midfield signing before the transfer window closes.
Chelsea is actively seeking a midfielder, especially with Enzo Fernandez reportedly pushing for a move to Manchester City ahead of Tuesday’s transfer deadline.
Fernandez was left out of the squad for the second game in a row as Chelsea secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
The club had previously shown interest in Granit Xhaka of Sunderland and Alex Scott from Bournemouth, but their pursuits were unsuccessful.
While Camara will not serve as a direct replacement for Fernandez, he does possess some comparable qualities. Fernandez is known for his controlling presence as a deep-lying midfielder, whereas Camara is more dynamic, capable of covering significant ground, influencing various phases of play, and exhibiting aggression.
If Camara’s move to Chelsea is completed, he could partner with Moises Caicedo in a double pivot, though he will face strong competition for a starting position.
Camara began his career at Senegalese club Generation Foot before joining Metz in 2023. He made the switch to Monaco the following year for €15 million (£13 million).
Since then, Camara has appeared in 75 matches for the French club, scoring six goals and providing 11 assists.