Youcef Atal is one of a host of names being linked with Chelsea to solve their left-back problem. Following the signing of Riza Durmisi last week, could OGC Nice be preparing for the Algerian full-back to make a move to Chelsea?
The 23-year-old is an extremely versatile full-back. Although he has mainly played at right-back, he is more than capable of operating on either side of the back four. He can also play further forward, on either wing. This versatility would make him a valuable asset for the Blues.
One of his top qualities is his ability to bring the ball out of defense and dribble past opposition players. This would help him fit perfectly into Lampard’s Chelsea system, and his pace will help him recover quickly in the defensive phase.
The numbers do not make for good viewing for Atal however. OGC Nice have kept just one clean sheet this season, and although that could be down to the rest of the backline, it is something worth considering.
In addition to this, Atal has scored once this season and provided one assist. This puts him above Emerson’s zero goal contributions, and just behind Marcus Alonso’s one goal and two assists.
If Atal were to move to the Bridge, fans would be hoping for greater attacking returns. However, it is difficult to judge him in an OGC Nice side who are currently sat 11th in Ligue 1. Fans would be forgiven for considering the French side signing another full-back as an encouraging sign in the pursuit of the Algerian.
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