Youcef Atal: Algeria defender in advanced talks over surprise JS Kabylie return

Algeria international Youcef Atal is in advanced negotiations to rejoin JS Kabylie nearly a decade after leaving the country, according to several sources close to the deal.

The 28-year-old defender, who has spent most of his senior career in Europe, is understood to be in detailed talks with the Algerian giants as the club seeks to make him a flagship signing for a major rebuild.

Atal came through part of his youth development at JS Kabylie nicknamed the Canaries before moving on to Paradou AC. He then left Algeria in 2017 to join Belgian side KV Kortrijk on loan, a move that opened the door to a successful spell with OGC Nice in Frances Ligue 1 and other European stints.

If the agreement is finalised, the move would mark a significant homecoming for a player who has been a regular figure for the Algerian national team and one of the countrys most recognisable exports in recent years.

JS Kabylies bid to spearhead a new era

JS Kabylie are keen to make Atal one of the leading figures of a sporting overhaul launched after a disappointing 2025-26 campaign.

The Tizi Ouzou club, one of Algerias most decorated sides, has embarked on a deep restructuring process aimed at restoring its domestic and continental standing. Central to that plan is the arrival of new head coach Karim Belhocine, who took charge with a mandate to reshape the squad and playing philosophy.

Club officials see the signing of Atal as both a statement of intent and a way to reconnect with their tradition of developing top Algerian talent before it breaks through on the international stage.

Bringing back a high-profile alumnus who made his name in Europe is viewed internally as a way to galvanise the fan base and reinforce the clubs identity during a period of transition.

Belhocines key role in talks

Franco-Algerian coach Karim Belhocine is believed to be playing a central role in the negotiations.

Belhocine has previously worked with Atal in Belgium, and that existing relationship is said to be a major factor in convincing the full-back to consider a return to Algeria at this stage of his career.

The coachs tactical plans and assurances over Atals role within the team are understood to be part of ongoing discussions, as both parties look to align on sporting and contractual terms.

Sources indicate that exchanges between Atals camp and JS Kabylie are continuing with the aim of reaching a definitive agreement, though no official announcement has yet been made by the club or the player.

From Europe back to roots

Atals potential return would close a significant chapter of his journey abroad, which began with his 2017 switch to KV Kortrijk and blossomed during his time in Ligue 1 with OGC Nice, where he earned a reputation as an explosive, attack-minded right-back.

His performances in France cemented his place in the Algeria national team, with whom he has featured at major tournaments, enhancing his profile across Europe and Africa.

A move back to JS Kabylie would not only reunite him with familiar surroundings but also position him at the heart of an ambitious domestic project, as the club looks to translate its restructuring into results on the pitch.

While finer details remain under discussion, the prospect of one of Algerias most prominent modern defenders returning to a club that helped shape his early career is already generating considerable interest among supporters and observers of North African football.