Ilay Camara’s emergence at Standard Liège has placed the 22-year-old Senegalese right-back firmly on the radar of both Stade Rennais and an unnamed English club, as interest grows ahead of the summer transfer window.
Just a short time ago, Camara was plying his trade in Belgium’s second division with Racing White Daring Molenbeek. His consistent performances there caught the attention of scouts from Standard Liège, who secured his services on loan for the 2024–2025 season.
Since making the move, the defender has quickly become a mainstay in the starting eleven, clocking 31 appearances across all competitions and registering three assists.
His reliability and technical quality have impressed not only the Standard Liège coaching staff but also clubs beyond Belgium’s borders.
The Belgian Pro League side, clearly recognising his potential, acted swiftly by activating the purchase clause in his loan agreement.
Camara has now committed his future to the club until June 2029. However, despite that long-term contract, transfer speculation surrounding the talented full-back has intensified.
Reports from within France suggest that Stade Rennais have identified Camara as a key target for their defensive line. Manager Habib Beye, who recently took charge at Rennes, is believed to be an admirer of the player’s pace, positioning, and work rate.
Beye reportedly sees Camara as a valuable reinforcement capable of locking down the right side of his back four. The Ligue 1 club is expected to assess the feasibility of a transfer in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, interest is also growing across the Channel. An English club, whose identity remains undisclosed, is said to be monitoring Camara’s situation closely.
While discussions are reportedly still in the early stages, the player’s performances have clearly not gone unnoticed in the Premier League or Championship circles.
Born in Belgium, Camara initially represented the Belgian national youth teams before opting to pledge his international future to Senegal.
That decision culminated in his debut for the Teranga Lions, marking a significant milestone in a career that has rapidly evolved over the past year.
Camara’s profile as a modern full-back — one who is both defensively dependable and capable of contributing in attack — makes him an appealing proposition for clubs seeking to bolster their flanks. His rise from the Belgian second division to international recognition with Senegal is a testament to both his talent and dedication.
Standard Liège are likely to face a dilemma if the interest from France and England materialises into formal offers.
With a contract running until 2029, the club holds a strong negotiating position, but a sizeable bid could test their resolve.
For Camara, the months ahead could prove pivotal as he weighs up the prospect of continuing his development in Belgium or making a leap into one of Europe’s top leagues.
As the summer window approaches, Ilay Camara’s name is one that will continue to surface — a defender whose journey is only just beginning, but whose impact is already being felt far beyond the borders of Belgian football.
