Former Chelsea midfielder Denis Zakaria has revealed that he actively encouraged Lamine Camara to turn down a high-profile move to Stamford Bridge during the summer transfer window. The Monaco star emerged as a primary target for the Blues as they searched for a replacement for Enzo Fernandez, but a deal famously collapsed at the final hour. However, the Blues are expected to return for the Senegal international in January, with Premier League rivals Liverpool also monitoring his situation.

Paul Pogba is finally closing in on a competitive return for Monaco, with club captain Denis Zakaria hailing the World Cup winner as an "incredible" talent who will be vital for the club's season run-in. The former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder has endured a nightmare campaign blighted by knee and calf injuries, but his long-awaited comeback appears to be just days away.