Why Chelsea should make a move for OGC Nice full-back Youcef Atal

Back in April 2019, The Telegraph had claimed that Chelsea were interested in signing OGC Nice full-back Youcef Atal. However, no deal materialized in the summer as the Blues were slapped with a two-window transfer ban.

Youcef Atal, 23, only joined OGC Nice from Paradou in his native Algeria in 2018 and quickly became a star with the Ligue 1 side. The Algeria international has made just 13 league appearances for OGC Nice this season as he picked a serious injury and underwent knee surgery back in December.

The 23-year-old had a solid last season with OGC Nice under manager Patrick Vieira, racking up six goals and one assist in 29 games.

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s form has dipped in recent weeks, with Frank Lampard’s men drawing 2-2 with Leicester City in the Premier League last weekend. Despite the Blues having had their transfer ban lifted, Lampard failed to bring in players during the January transfer window.

Given that the club couldn’t sign players in the summer and the race for top-four heating up, the 41-year-old tactician should have reinforced his squad.

Nevertheless, the Londoners must prioritise strengthening their defence when the transfer window reopens. Adding a new right-back is vital, with Cesar Azpilicueta ageing and Reece James in need of competition. To that end, Chelsea must rekindle their interest in Atal.

A right-back by trade, Atal can also operate on the other side of the defence. He can play as a wide midfielder, central midfielder or as a wing-back if required. That versatility would make him a handy option for Chelsea manager Frank Lampard.

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The Algeria international could be an option to compete with Reece James for the right-back spot at Chelsea. Atal would not only be an option at right-back but would also help the west Londoners in other areas of the field.

Verdict

Lampard has shown willingness to nurture young talents at Stamford Bridge, as seen by the emergence of academy stars such as Tammy Abraham, Reece James, Mason Mount and Fikayo Tomori this season. Thus, signing someone young like Atal would be a step that can pay off.