Mbaye Niang is expected to leave Sampdoria this summer, with several Serie B clubs reportedly lining up to secure the services of the Senegalese forward once his contract expires.
The 29-year-old striker joined Sampdoria in January for a short-term spell aimed at helping the club avoid relegation from Italy’s second division.
Despite a modest return of three goals in 16 appearances, Niang showed glimpses of the quality that once made him one of Ligue 1’s most talked-about young prospects.
However, familiar questions about consistency resurfaced during his time in Genoa.
Niang’s brief stay has ended in uncertainty. While Sampdoria’s survival hopes seemed to hinge on the final match of the regular season against Juve Stabia, the game ended in frustration for the forward.
A crucial late miss could have condemned the club to Serie C. However, a dramatic twist followed off the pitch: Brescia were docked four points by Italy’s Federal Court, a ruling that handed Sampdoria a lifeline. Instead of automatic relegation, they now face a play-off against Salernitana to determine their future in Serie B.
As those decisive matches approach, Niang remains on Sampdoria’s books until the end of the campaign. While he is eligible to feature in the play-offs, speculation about his next move has already intensified.
Multiple reports in the Italian press suggest that the striker has attracted interest from no fewer than four clubs—Cesena, Modena, Reggiana, and Frosinone—who are all closely monitoring his situation.
All four clubs see Niang as a low-risk, high-upside addition. With his contract set to expire, the former AC Milan and Rennes striker will be available on a free transfer.
His experience in Italy, France, and international competitions with Senegal adds to his appeal for sides looking to strengthen their attacking options without significant financial outlay.
Niang’s career has been marked by moments of brilliance interspersed with periods of inconsistency. Once viewed as a rising star during his early days with AC Milan, he went on to have mixed spells with Torino, Rennes, and Bordeaux, among others.
His move to Sampdoria was seen as a chance to reignite his career in a more prominent role, but his impact fell short of expectations.
Nonetheless, his technical ability, physical presence, and versatility remain valued assets at Serie B level. Clubs such as Cesena and Modena, who are targeting promotion pushes next season, could view Niang as a potential difference-maker—provided he finds the form and focus that have eluded him at various stages.
As Sampdoria prepare for their crucial relegation play-offs, Niang’s chapter with the club may be nearing its end. While his contribution on the pitch may have been limited, his name still carries weight in Italian football, and the upcoming transfer window could offer him a fresh start and an opportunity to finally deliver on long-standing promise.
