Monaco hope to keep Senegal’s Lamine Camara amid Chelsea transfer interest

AS Monaco are hoping to keep Senegal international Lamine Camara despite reported interest from Chelsea, with the French club facing important financial decisions before the transfer window closes.

Monaco chief executive Thiago Scuro said the club want the 22-year-old midfielder to remain for at least another season, although he acknowledged that financial considerations could influence their decision.

Reports from Foot Mercato said Monaco and Chelsea held talks over Camara’s potential transfer on Thursday, with further discussions expected.

Monaco hope to keep Camara

Scuro made clear that Monaco’s preference is to retain the Senegal international, who has become an important member of the squad.

“We hope that he stays, but we have to make financial decisions […] but for Lamine we hope that he stays at Monaco for one more season,” said Scuro.

Camara featured for Monaco in their match against Górnik Zabrze on Thursday as the club secured qualification for the UEFA Europa Conference League league phase.

Coach Filipe Luís has also spoken highly of the Senegal midfielder, describing him as a “special player”.

Chelsea interest could test Monaco

Monaco may need to raise additional funds through player sales before the transfer window closes, potentially putting some members of their squad at risk of departure.

Whether the club will be able to resist Chelsea’s interest in Camara remains uncertain.

The Senegal international has continued to attract attention with his performances, and Monaco’s financial situation could prove a key factor in determining whether he remains in the Principality.

Balogun’s future also unclear

Monaco are also facing uncertainty over the future of forward Folarin Balogun, who has reportedly attracted interest from Premier League clubs and Barcelona.

Scuro admitted that the forward could either remain at the club or leave before the end of the transfer window.

“It is possible that he stays and possible that he leaves,” the Monaco chief executive said.

As Monaco assess their options, Camara’s future is likely to remain one of the key stories to follow, with Chelsea monitoring the situation and the French club hoping to keep one of Senegal’s leading midfield talents for another season.