Newcastle United have now moved ahead of Liverpool in the race to sign Lamine Camara from Monaco.
The Senegal international has emerged as one of the most interesting young midfielders in Ligue 1, with the physically impressive 22-year-old capable of playing as either a number six or number eight. Liverpool have watched Camara closely, but Newcastle are now said to be showing the strongest intent.
Liverpool and Newcastle could continue their close — though perhaps not amicable — transfer relationship this summer. Letting Camara go to St James’ Park may not be a disaster for the Reds. In fact, it could be the catalyst for a far more exciting midfield move.
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Newcastle can sign Lamine Camara and Liverpool can go after Sandro Tonali
Camara is exactly the type of midfielder Liverpool should be looking at.
He is athletic, young, progressive and versatile enough to fit a number of roles. TEAMtalk report that he is valued at around £39m, with Newcastle now growing in confidence over a possible move.
Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal have all tracked him, while several other Premier League clubs are also said to have watched him closely.
Losing out on a transfer to a rival is never a good look. In reality, it might open a better door.
Sandro Tonali also fits what Liverpool need, and he is of a much higher current level. The Italian has the technical quality, physical edge and game intelligence to transform Arne Slot’s midfield.
There have been rumours around his future for months. Liverpool have been credited with interest in Tonali, while Manchester United and Manchester City appear further along in pursuit of the 26-year-old.
Many believe Tonali will end up at Man City this summer.
Newcastle’s external messaging remains that he is part of their long-term plans — a fair stance considering Tonali is one of their best players.
However, after a dismal season under Eddie Howe, the Italian might feel justified in agitating for a move. If Newcastle miss out on Europe and major clubs come calling, it would be a difficult situation to hold together.
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The last thing Newcastle will want is a repeat of last summer, when Liverpool signed their best player and the player they wanted to replace him with. They were refusing to budge with Alexander Isak, so Liverpool signed Hugo Ekitike, before going back in for the Swede in the final days of the window.
If Newcastle can land a quality replacement like Camara, their stance on Tonali may soften. In that case, this is a conversation Liverpool should be trying to have.
Camara would be a smart signing for Newcastle. Tonali would be a statement signing for Liverpool. If one helps make the other possible, the Reds should not be too upset about losing this particular race.
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