AS Monaco‘s summer sales of Folarin Balogun and Lamine Camara fell apart in the closing hours of the transfer window, but interest in the pair hasn’t gone away. Both players remain firmly on the radar of Premier League clubs ahead of the January window.

According to Ben Jacobs (via Caught Offside), Chelsea‘s failed £47 million move for Camara — agreed with Monaco before collapsing — hasn’t ended their interest, particularly with Enzo Fernandez now gone. But the Blues won’t have it easy: Liverpool are reportedly readying a fresh approach for the Senegalese midfielder next year.

Monaco’s financial situation adds urgency to any deal. The club is said to be carrying roughly £50 million in debt, making player sales a near-necessity — and Camara, despite his importance to the side, could be among those sacrificed in January.

Does Camara Actually Fit Liverpool’s Plans?

On ability alone, Camara is a standout — strong in the tackle, press-resistant, and comfortable progressing the ball from deep. But whether he solves a genuine problem for Liverpool is another matter.

Arne Slot already has Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch competing for the deeper midfield roles. What Liverpool arguably need more is a creative playmaker, not another ball-winner.

Chelsea May Offer a Clearer Path

Chelsea’s setup could suit Camara better. Regular game time alongside Moises Caicedo in a settled double pivot may prove more attractive than fighting for minutes in Liverpool’s crowded engine room.

Camara’s valuation is unlikely to shift much between now and January unless his form spikes dramatically — but with two heavyweight suitors already circling, more clubs could yet join the race.