Watford are said to have contacted Nice over a possible transfer of full-back Youcef Atal as they are highly impressed with his performances for the French club, according to Foot Mercato.
The Algerian’s performances have not only alerted Watford but also Italian outfit Napoli who have also enquired about the availability of the player in the upcoming transfer window. However, the French outfit is not willing to let go of Atal, who has been such an asset to the club.
According to reports, Youcef Atal, who only made 13 appearances for Nice this term as his season was cut short due to injury, is said to be happy in France and is not looking to part ways with the club.
But Watford are not by any means pulling out from the race for the defender as they look to bolster their squad that is currently placed at the 17th position in the Premier League table.
Youcef Atal: What will he add to the team?
Watford are currently 17th in the Premier League table and their only focus on the pitch will be to avoid relegation this season. The arrival of Nigel Pearson had bolstered their resolve which resulted in a spate of rare wins but they have won just 1 out of their last 7 and will need to rediscover their form in the coming days.
But the board will have to plan ahead for next season and back the team to pull off another great escape. A number of areas have to be fortified in the transfer window and the fullback region has been looked at by the management to start off with.
Youcef Atal could be a good addition to their squad and could instil pace and energy both in the backline and on the wings. He has already shown his potential in the Ligue 1 helping his side finish 5th in the table this season but the Premier League is sure to be a tough test for him.
The biggest plus of having Atal in the squad is his versatility. He can play not only as a right-back but also as a right-winger and a right midfielder. This will give Watford boss, Nigel Pearson the option to try him out in different positions and set alternative strategies depending on the opponent and formation they would want to go with.
The Algerian’s dribbling skills are on point as he averages 3.6 dribbles per game which is not a bad number as far as a defender is concerned. Though a potent offensive threat, his defensive skills are not something to be written off as ball interceptions are another major aspect of his game and his ability to track back when caught out of position is something a beleaguered Watford squad will welcome.
They have looked bereft of fight at times especially when conceding early and a fresh injection of pace and intent from the back will surely reinvigorate the squad.
The 24-year-old is a skilful defender who likes to pass and link up with other attackers but his crossing is an aspect which needs a lot of work, especially if he is to succeed at the highest level.
Having said that, Watford pulling off this deal will require some major work by the management with a couple of top European clubs also in the race along with the small matter of the player being in no hurry to leave his current employers.
