Spurs fans were frustrated to hear that January transfer target Youcef Atal has suffered a long-term injury that will surely lessen the chances of Jose Mourinho signing the right-back in January.
It was confirmed by OGC Nice (via Daily Hotspur) that the Algerian full-back had suffered a knee injury that is expected to keep him out of action for a long time. The 23-year-old has been impressive so far this season for the French side; averaging a 7.15 rating in Ligue 1 and has been linked with a move to North London in recent months.
Atal was named in the Ligue 1 team of the season for his performances in the last campaign and has attracted interest from some major European clubs after his impressive displays in the French top division. It was expected that Mourinho would strengthen his Spurs defence in January, especially in the full-back positions, but the Portuguese manager may have to look elsewhere for a new right-back after Atal’s injury.
Should Spurs still look to sign Atal despite his injury?
Yes
No
Reaction from Spurs fans to Atal’s injury update can be seen in the tweets below.
This actually makes him more likely to come in, as Levy will see a bargain opportunity
— Sad Sonny (@HeungMinSad) December 8, 2019
This club is so cursed that even our transfer targets get injured now
— Corlade Denis (@CorladeDenis129) December 8, 2019
He will fit in perfectly now then
— Robbie (@RBMKY) December 8, 2019
So now he’s even cheaper?
— ChrisTHFC (@barkerchris931) December 8, 2019
Not signing him in january now
— Alex Quillin (@AlexQuillin1) December 8, 2019
Nooooo
— Richie46 (@Richie469) December 8, 2019
These Spurs fans are clearly devastated to hear that Atal is injured and are now hoping that Mourinho can find another right-back to sign in January.
What do we think?
Atal’s injury suggests that Mourinho will have to find another right-back in January as back-up to Serge Aurier; who is yet to win over fans despite his impressive recent form under the new boss. However, Atal, who is valued at £22.5 million (Transfermarkt), could still represent an excellent signing for Spurs if Mourinho is willing to wait until the summer.