Senegalese striker M’Baye Niang is on the verge of completing a move to Turkish side Gençlerbirliği, with the newly-promoted Süper Lig club set to finalise a two-year deal for the experienced forward.
Niang, 30, has been a free agent since July following the expiration of his contract with Italian outfit Sampdoria. Now poised to make a return to Turkish football, the former AC Milan player is expected to add depth and experience to Gençlerbirliği’s attacking options as they prepare for life back in the top flight.
Negotiations between the two parties have reached an advanced stage, with only minor formalities remaining before the transfer is officially confirmed.
According to reports from Turkey, the deal will see Niang commit to the Ankara-based club until 2027, signalling a fresh chapter in a career that has already spanned several countries and top-tier leagues.
No stranger to Turkish football, Niang previously played for Adana Demirspor during the 2023 season, where he left a positive impression with his strength, pace, and technical ability.
His familiarity with the league and playing conditions could prove vital for Gençlerbirliği as they aim to cement their place in the Süper Lig after promotion.
Niang’s professional journey began in France with Stade Malherbe de Caen, before earning a high-profile move to AC Milan. Over the years, he has turned out for clubs such as Torino, Montpellier, Stade Rennais, Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, and Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca.
His most recent stint in Italy’s Serie B with Sampdoria marked a brief period away from the spotlight, but the move to Gençlerbirliği represents an opportunity to revive his career on a competitive platform.
Known for his versatility across the front line, Niang brings a blend of physicality, flair, and experience that could bolster Gençlerbirliği’s attacking threat.
With over a decade of professional football under his belt, the Senegal international is also expected to offer leadership to a squad adjusting to the rigours of Süper Lig competition.
Valued at €1 million by Transfermarkt, Niang’s addition aligns with Gençlerbirliği’s strategy of blending experienced campaigners with young talent as they target stability in the top flight.
The club’s return to the Süper Lig has already sparked optimism among fans, and the potential arrival of a proven forward like Niang is likely to raise expectations further.
For Niang, this move serves as both a homecoming and a new challenge — a chance to rediscover form and consistency in a league where he has previously shown flashes of his talent.
As Gençlerbirliği continue their preparations for the new season, all eyes will be on the final confirmation of the deal and how quickly the Senegalese forward can make an impact on Turkish soil once more.
