Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara says he is fully focused on the new Ligue 1 season after his proposed £47.1 million move to Chelsea collapsed shortly before the transfer window closed.
The 22-year-old Senegal international had completed a medical as Chelsea pushed to sign him, but the deal ultimately fell through despite the Premier League club making two bids for the midfielder.
Camara admitted there had been a possibility of leaving Monaco but insisted he has quickly moved on from the disappointment.
As reported by BBC Sport on Saturday, the Senegalese was quoted as saying, “There was a possibility I could leave,” Camara said ahead of Monaco’s match against Strasbourg.
“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 turbulent end to the transfer window, particularly as uncertainty surrounded Folarin Balogun’s proposed move to Everton.
However, when Balogun’s transfer appeared to be back on track, Monaco seemed to reconsider their decision to sell Camara. In the end, both players remained at the Ligue 1 club.
Reports in France had suggested Monaco were looking to make a major sale during the summer and had preferred to sell Balogun. A source at the club had previously indicated that it would take a substantial fee to convince Monaco to part with Camara.
Despite the failed move to Chelsea, Camara has started the season positively with Monaco. The club won their opening three Ligue 1 fixtures and were second behind Rennes, with a game in hand, heading into the weekend.
Camara remains confident he can play an important role for Monaco and is refusing to allow the failed transfer to distract 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.”