Chelsea have established an interest in signing OGC Nice defender Youcef Atal and could make a move if their transfer ban is delayed, according to a report from The Telegraph.
The Blues are understood to be among a trio of European outfits who have taken a liking to the right-back, who has caught the eye with some excellent performances in Ligue 1 this season.
Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich are noted as potential suitors for Atal, while Spanish club Atletico Madrid have reportedly identified him as a possible transfer target.
The Algerian turned in a stunning display in Nice’s most recent outing. Patrick Vieira’s side defeated EA Guingamp 3-0, with the right-back scoring a hat-trick.
According to The Telegraph, the 22-year-old is held in extremely high esteem by the French club. It is claimed that a fee worth at least €40 million would be required to convince them to sell Atal.
Chelsea are well stocked with right-back options, however. Cesar Azpilicueta and Davide Zappacosta are Maurizio Sarri’s current options, while Reece James and Victor Moses will return from their loans this summer.
