M’Baye Niang set to join Dunkerque in Ligue 2 after agreeing one-year deal

USL Dunkerque have reached a verbal agreement with M’Baye Niang over a move for the former AC Milan striker, in what could prove to be one of the Ligue 2 club’s most notable free-agent signings.

The 31-year-old Senegalese forward is expected to sign a one-year contract, with the option of a further season, according to L’Equipe. The agreement is not yet final, however, with the remaining details still to be settled before the transfer can be formally completed.

Niang must also undergo a medical as part of the process. That examination will take place before the striker finalises his return to French football with Dunkerque, who are hoping to confirm the deal shortly.

The proposed move would give Dunkerque a player with considerable experience at both domestic and European level. Niang began his senior career in France before attracting attention with AC Milan, and he went on to represent a number of clubs during a career that has included spells in several major European leagues.

His most recent experience came in Turkey with Genclerbirligi Ankara. During the previous season, the centre-forward made 26 league appearances and scored four goals.

Niang moved to Turkey after leaving France in 2023 at the end of his time with AJ Auxerre. A return to Ligue 2 would therefore mark his comeback to the French championship after several years away.

The striker’s current transfer value is estimated at €800,000 by Transfermarkt. Although he is currently a free agent, his experience at the highest level and his European background are viewed as valuable assets for Dunkerque as they look to strengthen their squad.

The club are preparing for their sixth Ligue 2 fixture of the season, when they will face Saint-Etienne. The match is expected to take place shortly, with Dunkerque’s potential new signing seeking to complete the formalities of his arrival before the club’s next commitments.

The betting company 1xBet has listed Dunkerque at odds of 4.10 to win the game. A draw is priced at 3.50, while a Saint-Etienne victory is listed at 1.72. The source article also promotes the option to download 1xBet.

For now, Niang’s move remains subject to the medical and final contractual arrangements. If those steps are completed successfully, Dunkerque will have secured a forward whose career has taken him from AC Milan and international football with Senegal to a new challenge in Ligue 2.