Algerian full-back Youcef Atal is set to leave Adana Demirspor in Turkey as his short six-month contract nears its end.
Besiktas JK has shown interest, but there are also rumors linking him to Olympique de Marseille as a backup for Jonathan Clauss. However, such a transfer seems unlikely.
Earlier this year, Atal had to depart OGC Nice due to a non-football-related issue involving his support for Palestine, leading to legal consequences in France. He was found guilty of incitement to hatred, receiving an eight-month suspended prison sentence and a €45,000 fine.
Marseille appears hesitant to take on the risk of integrating Atal into their squad, given the circumstances surrounding his departure from France. The Tizi-Ouzou-born player revived his career in the Turkish Süper Lig with Adana Demirspor, where he played a crucial role during his six-month tenure, starting 11 matches, scoring a goal, and providing two assists — solid performances overall.
At 28, the Algerian international defender still has time to rejuvenate his career. A move to Istanbul with Besiktas JK seems probable, considering the club’s interest. However, a return to France appears unlikely at this point due to political tensions and Atal’s controversial past. Furthermore, Marseille already relies on French international Jonathan Clauss on the right side of their defense.
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