Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keen on signing Nice star Youcef Atal.
Nice managed to snatch a draw away at Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday night, with Patrick Vieira’s men turning in a decent display at the Parc des Princes.
The game also saw right back Youcef Atal catch the eye with his attacking ability, with one particular run down the right flank earning huge praise across social media.
The Algerian, 22, has been a revelation for Nice this season having arrived from Paradou last summer, racking up seven goals in all competitions.
That’s a remarkable record for a defender, highlighting just how good he is going forward – but it may also give an indication about his priorities.
Atal loves to get forward and use his pace and technical ability to threaten defenders, but boss Vieira has highlighted something of an issue in the youngster.
Speaking to Nice Matin after Saturday’s draw, Vieira admitted that he loves Atal’s energy and attacking ability, as well as his work rate and unselfishness – but pointed out that his main problem is his defensive play, and he needs to improve there in the future.
“For Youcef, I’m very happy with him, on and off the pitch. He works a lot, he thinks about the team before thinking about himself,” said Vieira. “He has a lot of energy, is able to play wing back or winger.He brings a positive state of mind, he is happy on the field and I take great pleasure in working with him.He is improving little by little but he still has work to do on the defensive aspect,” he added.
Vieira’s comments will be of interest to Tottenham Hotspur, as they have asked Nice about a deal for the right wing back according to The Telegraph, believed to be worth around £34million after a sensational season.
Atal would may be bring that raw attacking ability that made Kyle Walker such a success under Mauricio Pochettino, but to become a Premier League regular, he will certainly need to heed Vieira’s warning.
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