According to Express, Tottenham Hotspur have identified several defenders as they aim to shore up their defensive department in the summer transfer window. Youcef Atal is among the players shortlisted by the Lilywhites, and it is believed that the OGC Nice right-back is valued around £25 million.
Tottenham Hotspur’s right-back conundrum
It has been a difficult season for the Tottenham Hotspur defence. Especially in the right-back department, they have failed to secure a viable replacement for Kieran Trippier.
Serge Aurier has been the primary replacement for Trippier this season. However, the Ivorian has appeared inconsistent. To be fair though, he has enjoyed a rich vein of form following the arrival of Jose Mourinho.
Even if Aurier continues to impress the onlookers with his work-rate and versatility, Spurs lack the presence of a reliable alternative. Kyle Walker-Peters moved to Southampton on loan in January, leaving Mourinho devoid of options.
Japhet Tanganga has made quite an impact this year, especially with his unrivalled commitment and astuteness at the back. But, the youngster is likely to be utilised as a left-back after Danny Rose joined Newcastle United on loan. Hence, Tottenham are in imminent need of a new right-back in the summer.
Why Youcef Atal is the perfect choice for Tottenham Hotspur
Atal is regarded as one of the best right-backs in Ligue 1. Since moving to OGC Nice in the summer of 2018, he has enjoyed a steady rise in stock, having already made 44 appearances for the club. During this period, he has scored seven goals.
The most prominent feature of Atal’s gameplay is his ability to provide offensive support. He is a technically astute defender that allows him to rotate possession and link-up with teammates in the final third.
The 23-year-old has amassed a pass completion rate of 81% this season with almost one key pass per game. These characteristics could tune in well with Mourinho’s pragmatic style of play at Tottenham.
Another key asset for Youcef Atal is his pace. It allows him to cause a menace for the opposing defenders during a counter-attack. Moreover, it helps him hurry and hassle the opposing ball-carrier, which is why the defender has won 1.8 tackles per game this season. His tally of 1.8 interceptions per game, meanwhile, is indicative of his ability to read the game.
Although one could argue that Atal is relatively inexperienced at the highest stage of football, he certainly has the talent as well as the quality to make a mark in the English top flight. And at the age of 23, the Algerian international could be a smart long-term acquisition for the Lilywhites.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
