Liverpool’s search for a midfielder could be about to become very interesting.
Reports from France suggest Monaco are preparing for the possible departure of Lamine Camara, with the Ligue 1 club looking at midfield reinforcements.
That could be significant for Liverpool.
The Senegal international has been linked with the Reds for much of the summer, and Monaco have already been reported to be searching for midfielders in case they lose him before the transfer window closes.
Monaco preparing for life without Camara?
The latest information suggests Monaco are working on bringing in midfielders, with Pape Matar Sarr among the names mentioned, while they are also reportedly working on Erik Lara.
If Monaco are genuinely making moves to strengthen their midfield, it could be a sign that they are preparing for Camara’s departure.
And that should immediately get Liverpool fans interested.
Camara is exactly the type of midfielder Liverpool could use.
Liverpool need a No.6
The biggest issue for me is balance.
Liverpool have plenty of attacking quality in midfield.
Dominik Szoboszlai can contribute defensively, Alexis Mac Allister is an excellent all-round midfielder and Ryan Gravenberch has shown his quality.
But Liverpool still lack a natural defensive midfielder who can sit in front of the defence and give the team protection.
Camara could provide that.
He is predominantly a No.6 but also has the ability to carry the ball forward and contribute creatively. Last season he ranked highly among Ligue 1 midfielders for duels and defensive contributions.
Liverpool have already been linked
This isn’t a completely new name for Liverpool.
Camara has been on the club’s radar for some time and was previously identified alongside players such as Adam Wharton as a potential midfield target.
Crystal Palace have already had a bid rejected for the Senegal international, while Manchester United, Chelsea and several other Premier League clubs have also been linked.
So Liverpool certainly wouldn’t be alone in the race.
Monaco won’t make it easy
The major problem will be the price.
Monaco have reportedly been looking for around €60m (£51m) for Camara.
That’s a substantial investment.
But Liverpool have already demonstrated this summer that they are prepared to spend huge money when they believe the right player is available.
The question is whether they view Camara as that player.
After the Newcastle draw, I certainly think they should.
Newcastle exposed Liverpool’s midfield
Liverpool had plenty of possession against Newcastle.
But possession isn’t enough.
When Newcastle won the ball, they were able to attack Liverpool’s midfield and defence far too quickly.
The Reds looked vulnerable in transition.
That is precisely where a midfielder like Camara could make a difference.
He could give Liverpool an extra layer of protection and allow the more attacking players to concentrate on creating chances.
Camara could suit Iraola
There’s another reason I like the idea.
Camara has the energy and intensity required for Iraola’s football.
He isn’t simply a player who sits in front of the defence.
He can press.
He can win the ball.
He can carry it forward.
And he can help Liverpool transition from defence into attack.
That versatility could make him particularly valuable in a double-pivot system.
Could Liverpool hijack the race?
This is where things get interesting.
If Monaco are now actively preparing for Camara’s departure, Liverpool should be ready to move.
There is a danger that another Premier League club gets there first.
Crystal Palace have already shown their willingness to spend heavily, while Manchester United and other clubs have been monitoring the situation. (TEAMtalk)
Liverpool don’t want to spend another season talking about their need for a No.6 only to watch another club sign the player.
My verdict
For me, this is one Liverpool should seriously consider.
Camara is young, talented, experienced at international level and already accustomed to European football.
More importantly, he fills an obvious weakness in Liverpool’s squad.
The Reds have spent huge money on Isak, Wirtz and Barcola because they want to build an elite attack.
Now they need to make sure the team behind those players is strong enough.
Camara could be that missing piece.
And if Monaco really are preparing for his departure, the opportunity may be opening.
Liverpool have been linked with Lamine Camara for weeks.
Now Monaco could be preparing to let him go.
The question is simple:
Will Liverpool finally make their move before another Premier League club does?
Jamie (The Kopite View)
Its absolutely must. Buy him