Chelsea close to finalising deal for Monaco star

Chelsea are close to finalising the transfer of midfielder Lamine Camara from AS Monaco, according to French outlet Foot Mercato.

The west London giants are preparing for the departure of Enzo Fernandez and have earmarked Camara as an ideal replacement.

Talks are progressing quickly behind the scenes, and the Blues believe they can strike a suitable agreement by Sunday, as per Foot Mercato.

Camara has already agreed on personal terms over a long-term contract, and his arrival could speed up Fernandez's exit before the deadline.

Manchester City are clear-cut favourites to land Fernandez, and the Cityzens are expected to make a formal bid in the next 24 hours.

Meanwhile, Chelsea host Brighton & Hove Albion in tomorrow's early Premier League kick-off. Fernandez is unlikely to feature.

The World Cup winner may have played his final game for the Blues.

Chelsea could continue their transfer activity after Camara, with plans to secure another marquee signing before Tuesday's 11pm deadline.