Chelsea are reportedly considering a move for Nice defender Youcef Atal if their transfer ban gets lifted in January.
Although Chelsea are still in the midst of their two-window transfer ban, that has not stopped the rumor mill from throwing up some interesting links for when they are once again able to bring in new recruits.
The Blues have conceded nine goals in just four Premier League games this season and manager Frank Lampard, who has admitted defensive concerns, is now believed to be prioritizing the addition of a new central defender to provide competition for Andreas Christensen, Fikayo Tomori and Kurt Zouma.
And to that end, The Sun and Calciomercato claim Chelsea is ready to move for Nice’s 23-year-old defender Youcef Atal, although whether that will be in January or next summer remains to be seen.
Chelsea are currently banned from buying player, but the club have contested the punishment and remain hopeful that the ban will be overturned, leaving them free to sign players in January.
The Algeria international is a the Stamford Bridge outfit are keeping their eyes on this weekend as Les Aiglons face Montpellier in Ligue 1. Atal has emerged as a key player for Nice, who are managed by Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira, having joined the club from Algerian side Paradou AC last year.
The 23-year-old is one of the most offensive, and versatile, defenders in France. He made 29 appearances for the club in season 2018/2019, while he has also represented Algeria 13 times.
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