Numerous reports are claiming that Arsene Wenger is plotting a move for 21-year old Senegal forward M’Baye Niang, who currently plays for AC Milan. Wenger is known to be a great admirer of the young striker and has also attempted to bring him in previously but things did not materialise.
He was also one of the main targets for current Premier League defending Champions Leicester City for the upcoming January transfer window but considering their current league position their title ambitions are highly questioned. Although they are doing well in the Champions League, the biggest European trophy in the club level is still a long shot.
Now, according to Calciomercato, Arsenal are planning an attempt to bring the 21-year-old to north London. It was also stated that Arsenal are willing to wait until the next summer transfer window if things don’t work out in the winter transfer window in January.
Standing in at 184 cm, the Senegal international could be a big catch for any team. Niang has scored 3 goals and got assists in 7 Serie A appearances this season. He is attaining his peak and could be a lethal forward in the next two years if he plays with the right players.
With his long shooting and dribbling ability, he could be of great help to Arsenal, who could do well from outside the D-box.
There are things he needs to improve, however. One of the things in particular, which is quite noticeable in Niang’s play, is that he has this tendency to hold on to the ball for longer than necessary. While trying to retrieve the ball, he commits needless fouls often but that is also a sign that he is a pretty hardworking forward.
In a fast paced league like the EPL, it is difficult to hold on to the ball and crunching tackles are quite the style of play. He might end up losing the ball on multiple occasions.
With Arsenal known to give chances to youngsters, some of the recent examples being Hector Bellerin and Alex Iwobi playing in the Champions league, Niang could expect to break into starting eleven. Being a top-flight club, Arsenal regularly play Champions league, FA Cup, and League Cup every year, which means more playing platform for the youngster.
His versatility will also allow him the chance to compete for more positions in the starting lineup. The speedster has thrived on the left for AC Milan this season, but his strongest position is as the striker. So, that’s an added benefit. With Giroud not getting any younger, Niang could be a good long-term prospect for the club.
