Chelsea are preparing for a potentially decisive end to the summer transfer window under Xabi Alonso.
Much of their focus surrounds Enzo Fernandez, who remains a leading target for Manchester City.
Chelsea initially valued the Argentina international at £120 million and set an unofficial deadline for interested clubs.
Manchester City missed that cutoff, although their pursuit has continued as the transfer deadline approaches.
Fernandez has also fallen out of Alonso’s immediate plans after the manager omitted him from Chelsea’s recent Carabao Cup squad.
The Blues nevertheless started the Premier League season positively with a 3-2 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage.
They followed that result by beating Luton Town 2-0 in the Carabao Cup second round.
However, Chelsea are already preparing for the possibility that Fernandez could leave before the window closes.
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea are progressing with a move for Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara as Fernandez’s potential replacement.
The 22-year-old has emerged as Alonso’s preferred option, with Chelsea working on a possible deal throughout August.
Camara reportedly considers Chelsea his first-choice destination and would welcome the opportunity to work under Alonso.
Chelsea have reached a loose understanding over a potential transfer but are waiting for Manchester City to accelerate their Fernandez pursuit.
Monaco are expected to demand more than €50 million, with a €60 million offer likely to secure Camara’s signature.
Chelsea would have no issue meeting that valuation once they receive clarity over Fernandez’s future.
Alonso wants a replacement secured before allowing the Argentina international to complete a move away from Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea have also considered Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton during their search.
Roma midfielder Manu Kone has also been offered to the Blues as another possible option.
However, Camara currently represents Chelsea’s most advanced midfield target as they prepare for a potential late reshuffle.
Manchester City’s next move for Fernandez could therefore determine whether Chelsea complete their €60 million pursuit of Camara.
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