Camara focused on Monaco after Chelsea deal falls through

Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara says he is focused on the new Ligue 1 season after his £47.1 million move to Chelsea fell apart just before the transfer window closed.

The 22-year-old Senegal international had done his medical with Chelsea, who were eager to sign him. But the deal fell through even though the Premier League club made two offers for the midfielder.

Camara said there was a chance he could leave Monaco but added that he has quickly moved on from the disappointment.

As reported by BBC Sport on Saturday, Camara said, “There was a possibility I could leave. It didn’t go through at the last minute, and that’s part of football. I’ve turned the page and am focusing on the season.”

Monaco had lowered their asking price during a hectic end to the transfer window, especially with uncertainty around Folarin Balogun’s potential move to Everton.

But when Balogun’s transfer seemed to be back on track, Monaco decided not to sell Camara. In the end, both players stayed at the Ligue 1 club.

Reports from France suggested that Monaco wanted to make a big sale this summer and preferred to sell Balogun. A source at the club had earlier said it would take a big fee to make Monaco part ways with Camara.

Even with the failed move to Chelsea, Camara has started the season well with Monaco. The club won their first three Ligue 1 matches and was in second place behind Rennes, with a game in hand, as the weekend approached.

Camara believes he can still play a big part for Monaco and is not letting the failed transfer affect him.

“I can help the team a lot,” he said. “Football moves fast. Maybe other opportunities will come along. But for now, I’m staying focused on the season with Monaco.”