M’Baye Niang set for Ligue 2 move with Dunkerque

USL Dunkerque have reached a preliminary agreement with M’Baye Niang over a move for the Senegal striker, in what could prove a significant signing for the Ligue 2 club. The 31-year-old, who previously played for AC Milan, has agreed verbally to begin a new spell in France, according to L’Equipe.

Niang is expected to sign a one-year contract with USL Dunkerque, with the option of an additional season. However, the deal has not yet been completed. The remaining details must be settled before the transfer can be made official, while Niang will also need to undergo a medical examination.

The proposed move would bring an experienced forward back to the French game after his departure from France in 2023. Niang left AJ Auxerre following his spell with the club and subsequently continued his career in Turkey.

His most recent club was Genclerbirligi Ankara, where he played during the previous season. The centre-forward made 26 league appearances and scored four goals in Turkey.

Niang’s career has included a spell at AC Milan, as well as experience at the highest level of European football. That background is viewed as a potential asset for Dunkerque as the club seeks to strengthen its squad.

Transfermarkt values the player at €800,000. If the agreement is completed, Niang will return to Ligue 2 several years after leaving French football. Dunkerque are now hoping to conclude the final formalities and confirm his arrival in the north of France soon.

The possible signing comes as Dunkerque prepare for their sixth-round Ligue 2 fixture against AS Saint-Etienne. The match is the club’s next scheduled game in the French second tier.

Odds published by 1xBet list Dunkerque at 4.10 to win, with a draw priced at 3.50 and an AS Saint-Etienne victory at 1.72. Those figures reflect the betting company’s assessment of the match, with Saint-Etienne considered the more likely winner.

For Dunkerque, the focus remains on completing Niang’s medical and finalising the contract before announcing the deal. Until those steps are finished, the agreement remains provisional, although the two parties have already reached an oral understanding over the Senegal international’s proposed return to France.