CHELSEA are considering a summer move for Nice right-back Youcef Atal, according to reports.
But the Blues need to find out first whether Fifa will delay their two-window transfer ban slapped on the club for illegal acquisition of foreign minors.
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Atal, 22, joined Nice from Belgian club Kortrijk just a year ago but has quickly become Patrick Vieira’s regular.
The skilfull dribbler has scored six goals for the Ligue 1 side this season, bagging a hat-trick against Guingamp on Sunday.
That’s the first triple netted by an Algerian in the French top-tier in 33 years.
And according to the Telegraph, Chelsea will try to test Nice’s resolve, making a bid for the £35m-rated star – if their transfer ban won’t kick in this summer.
However, Atal’s performances have caught attention of other top clubs with Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid believed to be among the sides interested.
The versatile right-back is believed to be interested in testing himself in the Champions League.
However, he understands he still has time to make a major step in his career having only spent one season in one of the top five European leagues.
IN LIMBO
Bur before Maurizio Sarri can plan any transfer moves this summer, Chelsea need to get confirmation from Fifa when their transfer ban will be enforced.
The Blues appealed the world governing body’s decision to block new signings for two windows, starting from this summer.
But after denying any wrongdoing surrounding the acquisition of foreign minors, the club are desperately hoping they may get a reprieve.
In the past Barcelona were granted a delay while Real Madrid had their ban reduced by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Fifa have been contemplating the appeal since April 11 but the Standard understand proceedings are “still ongoing” and a decision “isn’t imminent yet”.
However, others believe an announcement could be made this week.
If Fifa reject the appeal, Chelsea are likely to go to the CAS – but it is still unclear whether that means the ban will be in place because it was not overturned or if it will be delayed until a final decision is made.
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