Crystal Palace have made the first concrete move in the race to sign Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, a player valued at £43 million and tracked by both Manchester United and Liverpool, according to French outlet Foot Mercato.
Palace lead the chase for Camara
The Eagles have submitted a formal bid for the 22-year-old Senegal international, who has been on the radar of several Premier League clubs. Sky Sports report that Palace have already enquired about the cost of a transfer, and now Foot Mercato claims they have become the first club to present a concrete offer.
Camara, who joined Monaco from Metz in 2024 for around £13 million, is under contract until 2029. The Ligue 1 side are holding out for a fee of at least €50 million (£43 million) for their star midfielder.
United and Liverpool monitor the situation
Manchester United and Liverpool have both been monitoring Camara for months, but neither club has yet made a formal approach. United manager Michael Carrick has already signed Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans this summer, but he wants another midfielder following Casemiro's departure and Manuel Ugarte's long-term injury.
Liverpool's new boss Andoni Iraola is also keen to strengthen his central options, especially with Curtis Jones expected to leave Anfield before the transfer window closes. The Reds have been linked with a host of midfielders, but Camara has largely flown under the radar until now.
Camara's impressive stats
Camara recorded three goals and four assists in 24 Ligue 1 appearances last season. He was also part of Senegal's World Cup squad and helped his nation reach the Africa Cup of Nations final earlier this year. His performances have attracted interest from across Europe, but Premier League clubs are leading the chase.
Nottingham Forest also preparing a bid
Nottingham Forest are also preparing a bid for Camara, according to reports. The club are looking to strengthen their squad after a quiet summer, and they see Camara as a key addition. However, Palace have stolen a march by submitting the first offer, and it remains to be seen whether United or Liverpool will respond.
Palace's busy transfer window
Palace have stepped up their transfer plans in recent days, signing former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu and plotting a move for Chelsea starlet Josh Acheampong. The club have been relatively quiet this summer, but they are now making moves to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.
With the new Premier League season kicking off in less than two weeks, time is running out for clubs to complete their business. Camara's future is likely to be resolved quickly, with Palace's offer now on the table.
