Key Takeaways:
- Lamine Camara disclosed that he has “turned the page” following the collapse of his transfer to Chelsea on deadline day
- The midfielder clarified that he did not seek to leave AS Monaco during the summer transfer window
- Camara credited former Chelsea player Denis Zakaria and teammates for helping him stay focused in the aftermath of the failed move
Transfer Drama on Deadline Day
AS Monaco’s Lamine Camara, aged 22, has publicly addressed his failed move to Chelsea, expressing that he has “turned the page” following the breakdown of negotiations on transfer deadline day. Despite reports to the contrary, Camara denied that he had been eager to exit the Principality club during the summer window.
A deal had been agreed between Monaco and the Premier League side for Camara’s potential transfer to Stamford Bridge. Complicating matters, Folarin Balogun appeared poised to join Everton, which would have further enabled Camara’s departure. However, Monaco reversed their decision when Balogun’s own move failed to materialise before the window closed. Ultimately, both players remained at Stade Louis II, with no transfers completed before the deadline.
🚨🔵 Lamine Camara on his failed Chelsea move on deadline day:
🗣️ "There was the possibility. At the last minute, it didn’t happen, football moves quickly and maybe other chances with come. I’m focused on AS Monaco." pic.twitter.com/Jdk3hU06NJ
— Chels Zone (@TheChelsZoneX) September 11, 2026
Club Executive Comments and Player Response
Monaco CEO Thiago Scuro, speaking a day after the deadline, provided his perspective on the situation. According to Scuro, Camara had specifically requested the club’s cooperation in finalising the switch to Chelsea at that time. Facing the press as the transfer window drew to a close, Camara revisited the closing stages and shared his reflections on the episode.
Support from Teammates and Focusing on Monaco
During a press conference, Camara detailed his state of mind after the proposed transfer fell through. He also highlighted the valuable support and guidance he received from teammates in the dressing room, most notably from Denis Zakaria, who previously featured for Chelsea. Zakaria played a significant leadership role, advising Camara and offering encouragement during the turbulent period.
“It’s true that it was a hectic moment, but as you know, that is part of being a professional footballer. I tried to be professional and not think too much about it. I tried to turn the page and focus on PSG,” said Camara. “Did I want to leave? That makes you think that I wasn’t living in the present with the team. There was the possibility [of me joining Chelsea]. At the last minute, it didn’t happen, if another chance doesn’t come up, it is because I threw in the towel or didn’t work hard enough. Football moves quickly and maybe other chances will come. For now, I am focused on what I can bring and on the season at Monaco.“
