Senegal international Lamine Camara has made a strong impression on Monaco coach Filipe Luis, who wants the midfielder to remain at the French club despite growing interest in his services.
Camara, 22, has become an important player for Monaco, with Luis particularly impressed by his work when the team does not have possession.
The Brazilian coach believes the Senegalese midfielder has qualities that make him different from many players and is keen to continue working with him.
“He is a special player,” said Filipe Luis.
Camara’s future has become a talking point as Monaco face the possibility of receiving offers for the Senegal international during the summer transfer window.
The club could find it difficult to reject a proposal in the region of €50m, potentially opening the door for Camara to leave if such an offer arrives.
For now, however, Luis remains firmly in favour of keeping the midfielder and believes Camara still has considerable potential to develop.
The coach values not only his technical ability but also his attitude and willingness to work for the team.
Camara’s performances have underlined his importance to Monaco. He has scored six goals for the club, with three of those strikes coming from outside the penalty area.
His influence was also evident in one of Monaco’s recent matches, when he recorded 81 touches of the ball – the highest total among the players involved.
He also led the match for recoveries, winning possession back eight times.
Those figures reflect the all-round contribution that has caught Luis’ attention. Camara is not simply being judged on his goals and attacking qualities; his ability to contribute defensively has also made him valuable to the Monaco coach.
Luis’ admiration for the midfielder comes at a time when Monaco may have to make an important decision over his future.
Camara could leave if a suitable offer arrives, but the club’s coach would prefer to continue developing the player in the Principality.
The Senegalese midfielder’s ability to influence matches both with and without the ball is one of the reasons Luis considers him an important part of his plans.
His willingness to sacrifice himself for the collective has also impressed the former Brazil international.
For Senegal, Camara’s continued development at Monaco would represent another positive sign for a player who has established himself at international level.
At 22, he remains at an age where further improvement is expected, and Luis believes working with him for longer could help unlock another level in his game.
The coach’s comments also indicate how highly Camara is regarded within Monaco despite the possibility of a major transfer.
A €50m offer, however, could test the club’s resolve.
