A last-minute deal between Chelsea and Monaco for midfielder Lamine Camara has collapsed just hours before the Premier League transfer window closed. Earlier on Tuesday, Chelsea had made two bids for Camara—first €45 million (£38.5m) and then €50m (£42.8m)—but both were rejected by Monaco. The clubs eventually reached an agreement for €55m (£47.1m) as Monaco needed to offload another player, Folarin Balogun, to Everton. However, this deal has now been called off, as Balogun’s transfer to Everton has been finalized after a renegotiation. According to talkSPORT's Ben Jacobs, Chelsea is reportedly upset with Monaco, who now believe they could get up to €70m (£60.2m) for Camara. Camara had already agreed to join Chelsea, but Monaco’s stance changed after uncertainty arose over Balogun’s move to Everton. Jacobs explained that Monaco felt confident in holding out for a higher fee because they initially believed Balogun would leave, allowing them to keep Camara. However, as the deadline approached, Monaco grew anxious about the uncertainty surrounding Balogun’s transfer. Monaco had also previously stated they wanted €70m for Camara, but they accepted the lower €55m offer from Chelsea because they needed immediate funds. However, with Balogun now set to move to Everton, Monaco may feel they can hold out for a higher price. This shift has left Chelsea frustrated, as they had already prepared to announce Camara’s move on a six-year contract with an option for a seventh season. Chelsea believed they were securing both players for a combined fee, but now they feel Monaco is being unprofessional in backing out of the deal. Liverpool is also reportedly involved in the situation, having told Monaco and Camara that they would pursue the player in the future. Jacobs clarified that Liverpool did not interfere in the Chelsea deal but had made it clear they would be interested in Camara if he remained at Monaco. This adds pressure on Monaco to secure the highest possible fee, which may explain their decision to renege on the agreement with Chelsea. The situation highlights the unpredictable nature of transfer deadlines, where last-minute changes can dramatically alter the course of deals.