Liverpool and Chelsea to battle for the signature of Senegalese hidden gem

According to recent reports, Liverpool and Chelsea are set to go head-to-head to secure the signature of Lamine Camara. The Senegalese international currently plays for AS Monaco in France. While several Premier League clubs are interested in signing him, it appears that Liverpool and Chelsea are the frontrunners in the race. The report stated:

TBR Football is told that Camara has emerged on the radar of most of the Premier League’s top clubs. We can confirm that he has been watched by Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion and Bournemouth in recent months.

Source: TBR Football

The 20-year-old has been regarded as one of the finest talents in Europe, and Liverpool have enjoyed great success with Senegalese internationals, most notably Sadio Mane. The winger was a key player for Liverpool, helping them win both the Champions League and Premier League before his departure. Following a similar path, Liverpool are now interested in the midfielder, who also has a knack for scoring goals. In the current season, the player has contributed 8 goals and assists in 20 Ligue 1 appearances.

Whom did Camara play in the past? 

Lamine Camara has only one previous Ligue 1 season under his belt, having played for Metz. He spent the previous season at Metz before moving to AS Monaco in a deal worth €15 million. During his time at Metz, the player contributed 5 goals and assists across all competitions and played a pivotal role in helping the club maintain its position in the French top flight, finishing 16th. 

Why are Liverpool and Chelsea interested in the player? How much do they have to pay?

Liverpool and Chelsea are both looking to strengthen their midfield for the upcoming season. While Liverpool already have the likes of Wataru Endo, Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis McAllister, and Ryan Gravenberch, they are seeking additional cover for the defensive midfielder role, given the multiple competitions they will be involved in. Meanwhile, Chelsea are in search of a player who can replicate the qualities of N’Golo Kante, with a broad smile on his face. 

While several outlets state the value of the player to be around €20 million, with more than four years on his contract, his value will be closer to €35 million. It remains interesting to see the priorities of the club in the summer transfer window.