Andoni Iraola, head coach of Liverpool, looks on prior to the Liverpool v AS Monaco Pre-Season friendly match at Anfield, Liverpool, England on 9 August 2026
Credit Image: © Ben Roberts / Every Second Media / SmartFrame
Chelsea have changed their transfer priorities ahead of January, potentially handing Liverpool an advantage in the market.
Both Premier League clubs are assessing midfield reinforcements following contrasting starts under their new managers.
Chelsea have enjoyed a promising campaign under Xabi Alonso, including an impressive 5-1 victory over Bournemouth.
However, the Blues remain interested in strengthening their midfield following Enzo Fernandez’s departure to Manchester City.
Liverpool have also identified midfield recruitment as an important consideration under new manager Andoni Iraola.
The Reds recently suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Arsenal, exposing weaknesses within their evolving squad.
Consequently, Liverpool have continued monitoring potential additions capable of improving their midfield options.
Both clubs previously expressed interest in the same highly rated midfielder during the summer transfer window.
Chelsea even reached an agreement for his signature before negotiations collapsed at the final stage.
However, their decision to explore alternative targets has significantly improved Liverpool’s position.
According to Football Insider, Chelsea have abandoned their pursuit of Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, handing Liverpool a transfer boost.
The 22-year-old Senegal international was close to joining Chelsea during the summer transfer window.
Monaco ultimately withdrew from the agreement despite terms having been settled between the parties involved.
Chelsea initially retained their interest, but Alonso’s side have since shifted towards Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott.
The Blues reportedly consider Scott their preferred midfield target for the January transfer window.
Chelsea are even prepared to spend over £100 million to secure the England international’s signature.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have continued their pursuit of Camara following his impressive performances in Ligue 1.
The Reds have contacted his representatives, with discussions taking place behind the scenes.
Camara remains under contract at Monaco until June 2029, strengthening the French club’s negotiating position.
Monaco are understood to value the Senegalese midfielder at approximately £60 million.
Chelsea’s withdrawal could therefore reduce competition for Camara as Liverpool consider their next move.
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Hansi Flick, head coach of FC Barcelona, looks on during the Spanish league, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium on September 19, 2026, in Sevilla, Spain.
Hansi Flick, head coach of FC Barcelona, looks on during the Spanish league, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium on September 19, 2026, in Sevilla, Spain.