Chelsea are plotting a fresh move for AS Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara in 2027, after failing to get a deal done in the final stages of the summer transfer window.

A £47m agreement was in place, but Monaco's last-minute U-turn has left Xabi Alonso a little light on options in midfield, especially considering Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson are still out injured.

Henderson is still recovering from a broken wrist sustained at the World Cup, which means the former Liverpool man is yet to make his first appearance for the Blues, and Reece James had to partner Romeo Lavia in midfield against Arsenal last time out.

Alonso will no doubt be disappointed to have missed out on Camara, who has received major plaudits for his ability from set-pieces from Ben Mattinson.

The Como scout said: "The consistency of Camara’s delivery from set-pieces is brilliant. He took over from Golovin on corners and deep free-kicks, which speaks volumes.

"Lots of speed, whip and accuracy. He tends to prefer near post corners and far post free-kicks."

Mattinson has also described the Senegal international as an "all-action" midfielder, which is evidenced by the fact he is capable of making an impact at both ends of the pitch.

The 22-year-old has amassed a total of six goals and 11 assists in 76 matches since signing for AS Monaco, while his defensive attributes and passing ability have also been on full display in Ligue 1 this season.

As the Monaco star was keen on a move to Stamford Bridge, and has been performing well this season, it would make sense for the Blues to resurrect a deal next year, and that is exactly what they are planning to do.

Chelsea planning another move for Lamine Camara

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea remain keen on signing Camara next year, and his agents are still working to agree a move away from Monaco, with a departure deemed to be likely.

However, missing out on deadline day could have major consequences, as Alonso's side are now facing competition from the likes of Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool, with all three sides watching him in action against Paris Saint-Germain last time out.

The midfielder put on a show against the reigning European champions too, completing seven tackles, which was the highest number of any player on the pitch, while he also maintained a 92% pass-completion rate.

Should Camara continue to perform in similar fashion, it could be difficult for Chelsea to win the race for his signature, amid growing interest, but it will be vital for them to sign a new midfielder of some description, as Fernandez's departure leaves a gaping hole in the squad.