Chelsea are fighting to have their transfer ban lifted in the New Year and have identified Youcef Atal as they seek a new right-back in January, reports the Sun.
The Blues are unable to sign new players at present, but are hoping to appeal the ban in order to strengthen in 2020.
If they are successful, then Atal is high on their wish list with the Algerian shining for Ligue 1 outfit Nice following his move to France in 2018.
Youcef Atal: Has completed more dribbles (109) than any other Ligue 1 defender since the start of the 2018/19 season
— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) September 11, 2019
For more player stats -- https://t.co/ZHpXh4wf6T pic.twitter.com/zYIQxohqxd
Atal has attracted a number of admirers following a series of fine performances for the Ligue 1 outfit having completed more dribbles (109) than any other defender since the start of the 2018/19 season.
Indeed, Valencia are supposedly considering a move for the 23-year-old in January, but Chelsea will be confident of landing Atal if their ban is lifted.
Chelsea are looking to bring in a new right-back with Cesar Azpilicueta struggling for form this season.
Frank Lampard is hoping to be able to call upon Reece James when they travel to Wolves this weekend, with the youngster hoping to be handed the chance to nail down a regular starting spot after a solid campaign for Wigan in the Championship last term.