Chelsea chase €35m Ligue 1 talent, but there may be no space

Reports in the Sun claim that Chelsea are interested in Youcef Atal for a January move if they have their transfer ban lifted.

The full back racked up 29 Ligue 1 appearances as his team Nice impressed, finishing 7th in Patrick Viera’s first season in European management. He is a right sided defender, but can push forward and play as a wide midfielder too.

He looks a real talent, with attacking verve and defensive qualities too, and there will be other teams circling – the tabloid cite £35m as a potential price for him.

That would be steep, but Chelsea have just had a summer off spending money. If they see someone they want this winter, and the ban is lifted, they will go out and get him, we don’t doubt that.

The question is where he would fit in. Cesar Azpilicueta is the club captain and Reece James his young competition. Ahead we have Christian Pulisic, newly signed American flagwaver. Where’s the need for Atal?

 

Chelsea News