Mourinho in showdown with Arsenal to sign rising Ligue 1 full-back

Youcef Atal TEAMtalk

Jose Mourinho and Arsenal look set to lock horns in their quest to sign up-and-coming Ligue 1 right-back Youcef Atal in the January window, according to a report.

The North London clubs have both struggled at the back this campaign, with their three combined clean sheets in the league a decidedly poor return from their 26 combined matches.

The pacy Atal – equally adept at operating on the right of midfield as on the right of the backline – has been a standout performer for Nice this term.

Contributing one goal and two assists, Atal would be projected to provide stiff competition for current incumbent full-backs Hector Bellerin and Serge Aurier respectively.

The report in question comes from 90min, with the article stating: “Arsenal and Tottenham are both interested in recruiting the versatile 23-year-old,” with hopes high of beating off competition from some of Europe’s elite “should he be open to a move in the New Year.”

A move to the bright lights of the Premier League would represent the biggest move to date for the 14-times capped Algeria international, who recently spoke to Canal+ regarding the interest in acuqiring his services.

 

 

Atal said: “Yes, there are clubs that wanted me at that time. Last year it was too early [for a departure]. And even today, I’m focusing on another great season.

“Yes, I can play in a big club, that’s part of my goals. I work for that. There is not a player who will tell you that he would not like to play for a big club.”

Meanwhile, rumours of Christian Eriksen’s departure to Inter Milan have gathered momentum after the player’s agent travelled to Italy to lay out his clinet’s contract demands.