Chelsea furious as Camara's $64mn move from Monaco collapses
Sep 03, 2026
London [UK], September 3: Chelsea were left furious after a £47.1 million ($63.7 million) deal to sign midfielder Lamine Camara from Ligue 1 side Monaco collapsed late on Tuesday, the Press Association understands.
The 22-year-old had completed a medical as the London club looked to secure a replacement for Enzo Fernandez, whose move to Manchester City for a joint-British record £125 million was sanctioned several hours earlier.
Chelsea sources say that Monaco, having confirmed agreement of the deal in writing, reneged on their commitment and informed the club they were backing out of the move after the transfer deadline had passed, with their conduct described by one source as "extraordinary and deeply unprofessional".
The club believe that Monaco's willingness to sell the Senegal international was conditional upon striker Folarin Balogun's proposed move to Everton, which also collapsed late on deadline day.
It has been reported that Monaco were under pressure to make a significant sale this summer. When a £40 million deal for the United States striker to join Everton looked to be in doubt on Tuesday, it prompted the French club to drop their asking price for Camara.
Chelsea had previously had two bids rejected.
The Balogun deal was then resurrected, with the player having an Everton medical, before finally it was called off after he had a change of heart.
PA understands the deal for Camara cannot now be completed because Monaco did not sign a deal sheet before the window closed at 11pm on Tuesday.
Chelsea sources say no formal reason has been given by Monaco for backing out of their agreement.
The record-equalling deal for Fernandez to join former Blues boss Enzo Maresca at City had prompted Chelsea to move to bolster their midfield by going after Camara.
It is understood that following Monaco's decision, it was still possible for the west London club to back out of the Fernandez deal, but having reached agreement with City, the possibility was not entertained.
Source: Qatar Tribune
