According to a recent report by Mirror, West Ham United are keen to lure Torino attacking midfielder M’Baye Niang to the London Stadium. Manuel Pellegrini is believed to be planning to lodge a bid to sign him. However, Arsenal manager Unai Emery is also keeping close tabs on him after his performance in the World Cup along with Nice, who are also trying to sign him.
Fact File
Niang’s early development during his youth career took shape at Poissy and Caen and he showed remarkable promise during his time therein, which persuaded the latter to promote him to their senior side. In the summer of 2012, he signed for AC Milan and while he was in the books of the Italian giants, he was shipped out on loan to Montpellier, Genoa, Watford and Torino.
Attributes
He proved to be a handy asset for the Bulls last season in the Serie A and as a result, they activated their option to buy him at the end of his loan spell and made the move permanent. Besides, he made 3 appearances for Senegal in the World Cup, in which he scored 1 goal and garnered 1 assist.
A versatile attacker who can operate on either wing, as well as a striker, Niang’s versatility would be a handy addition for the Hammers. He is strong, good in the air and is clinical in front of the goal. Besides, he moves the ball cleverly and creates an ample amount of opportunities for his side more often than not. His loan spell with Watford has given him a taste of English football and hence another move to these shores will not pose much of a culture shock for the player.
Why Should The Irons Sign M’Baye Niang?
Pellegrini has already secured the signings of Felipe Anderson, Issa Diop, Jack Wilshere, Lukasz Fabianski, Ryan Fredericks, Fabian Balbuena and Andriy Yarmolenko. Getting someone like Niang would be the icing on the cake of a squad which is one of the most exciting in the Premier League as of now.
The 23-year-old accumulated 26 Serie A appearances under his belt last term and managed to bag 4 goals and 1 assist. Although his crossing technique and ability to hold the ball has been criticized at times, he should be able to polish himself under the guidance of Pellegrini. It would be intriguing to see whether his move to West Ham United materializes or not but he is certainly a player who would enhance the quality of their arsenal.