AS Monaco have turned down a verbal offer of more than €41m from Crystal Palace for 22-year-old midfielder Lamine Camara, as interest in the Senegal international intensifies ahead of the transfer window’s next phase.
The proposal was reported by Nizaar Kinsella and would have represented a record investment for the London club if accepted. However, Monaco quickly rejected the approach and appear unwilling to sanction a deal on those terms.
Palace’s interest remains strong despite the response from the Ligue 1 side. Camara’s consistent performances in France and for Senegal have attracted attention from several leading European clubs, meaning Palace face significant competition if they are to complete a transfer in the coming weeks.
Brighton are also in contact with Camara’s representatives, according to an exclusive report by Africafoot. The club, known as the Seagulls, are therefore competing with Palace’s Eagles for the midfielder’s signature.
Other prominent clubs are monitoring the situation closely. Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool and Nottingham Forest have all been linked with the 22-year-old, whose current valuation is reported to be €40m.
Camara earns an annual salary of €920,000, equivalent to 598,000,000 FCFA, and his contract with Monaco runs until 2029. That long-term agreement gives the French club a strong position in negotiations, particularly with interest continuing to grow after the rejection of Palace’s initial approach.
The Senegal international has established himself as an important player for Monaco since moving into the spotlight with his club and country performances. His form in Ligue 1, combined with his impact on the international stage, has made him one of the more sought-after midfielders currently being discussed in the transfer market.
Palace’s bid being dismissed does not necessarily end the club’s pursuit, but any future offer would have to persuade Monaco to reconsider their stance. With Brighton, Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool and Nottingham Forest also attentive to developments, the French side may yet face further approaches for Camara.
Monaco are due to begin their French league campaign against Le Havre AC. Ahead of that fixture, bookmaker 1xbet lists Monaco as favourites, offering odds of 1.54 for a home win. A draw is priced at 3.80, while a Le Havre victory is listed at 3.76.
Camara’s situation is now one of the key transfer stories surrounding Monaco, with the club’s decision to reject a bid worth more than €41m underlining his importance and the level of interest in his services.