Crystal Palace have had a verbal bid for Ligue 1 midfielder Lamine Camara rejected by Monaco, according to BBC Sport. The offer, reportedly worth more than £35 million, would have made the Senegal international one of the most expensive signings in the club's history.
Camara, 22, has been a key figure for Monaco, featuring in their recent win at Anfield against Liverpool. The midfielder, who has 49 international caps for Senegal and played at this summer's World Cup, joined Monaco from Metz in 2024 for a reported fee of 15 million euros (£12.8 million).
The rejection comes as Palace continue an active summer transfer window under new manager Pierre Sage, who replaced Oliver Glasner. The Eagles have already secured four signings, including striker Evann Guessand on loan from Aston Villa, winger Dwight McNeil from Everton in a swap deal involving Brennan Johnson, and former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu on a free transfer. Oscar Mingueza also arrived from Celta Vigo.
The bid for Camara suggests Palace are targeting midfield reinforcement ahead of the new Premier League season. Their campaign opens away at Everton on 22 August, following a final pre-season friendly at Freiburg.
BBC Sport's report is the sole source for this development, but it is a Tier 1 outlet with direct access to club officials, lending credibility to the claim. The exact structure of the bid, whether it included add-ons or was a straight cash offer, remains unclear.
Monaco's rejection does not necessarily end Palace's pursuit; such responses often lead to improved offers. However, no formal agreement has been reached, and any deal would require Monaco's willingness to sell a player who played a significant role in their recent success.
The financial commitment would be substantial for Palace, potentially breaking their transfer record. Whether they return with an improved bid or move on to alternative targets is yet to be seen, but this rejection marks a clear statement of intent from the London club.
For now, the situation is at an early stage: interest has been formalized in a bid, but no agreement exists. Palace's next move will determine whether this becomes a prolonged negotiation or a brief, unsuccessful attempt.
Why it matters
Crystal Palace have identified Lamine Camara as a key midfield target, with a bid exceeding £35 million. Monaco's rejection indicates they value the player highly, but Palace's willingness to make such a substantial offer suggests they are serious about strengthening. The outcome will depend on whether Palace increase their offer and whether Monaco are willing to negotiate.
What remains unconfirmed
- Whether the bid included add-ons or bonuses is not specified.
- Whether Crystal Palace will return with an improved bid is unknown.
- There is no confirmation of any agreement between the clubs.
- No medical or personal terms have been reported.
- Monaco's valuation of Camara is not stated.