AS Monaco sporting director Thiago Scuro has provided an explanation for the collapse of Lamine Camara’s proposed move to Chelsea, confirming that Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso had spoken directly to the midfielder during negotiations.
Scuro revealed that Camara had asked to leave Monaco, with discussions progressing to the point where Alonso personally outlined his plans for the Senegal international.
The Monaco sporting director, however, said the French club ultimately decided to end negotiations and retain the midfielder.
Scuro has since spoken with Camara and attempted to reassure him about his future, telling the player that a major transfer could still materialise “very soon” and that he could have “even better options than he did yesterday.”
The comments come amid reports that Camara’s camp and Chelsea were furious with Monaco’s decision, with the player understood to have been prepared for the move after agreeing personal terms and completing his medical.
Despite the disappointment surrounding the failed Chelsea transfer, Scuro insisted that Monaco’s decision was simply “part of the game.”
Camara now faces the prospect of remaining at Monaco, although Scuro’s comments suggest the club could be open to a future transfer if an attractive offer arrives.
For the midfielder, the immediate priority will be to put the failed Chelsea move behind him and focus on his performances while waiting for what Monaco believe could be an even bigger opportunity.