Arsenal Transfer News: Breaking Down Newest Target M'Baye Niang

The future is important, too. 

While Robin van Persie's decision to eventually leave Arsenal sent shock waves through Gunner nation, and the immediate result will inevitably be a call for backup, the future is still something that needs to be addressed. 

Fortunately, Arsene Wenger is well aware of that, as he has shown interest in 17-year-old Caen forward, M'Baye Niang (via goal.com):

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Arsenal have taken Caen‘s teenage sensation M’Baye Niang on trial, a decision that has been met with opposition from the French side’s coach Patrice Garande.

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Let's take a further look at the interesting young prospect.

Not a Solution for the Departure of Robin van Persie

Yes, Niang already has first-team experience in Ligue 1, but don't for a minute think this is a move to replace van Persie should the Dutchman follow through on his threats to leave. 

The French international is still just 17 years old. The odds of him stepping into Premier League action for a top-four squad and making an immediate impact are seriously low. 

So, while Niang is intriguing, he clearly shouldn't be the main solution. Should the Gunners sign him, they still will have to follow it up with more impact signings. 

That's Not to Say He Isn't Important

While Niang certainly won't be scoring 30 goals for Arsenal anytime soon, depth is always important, especially in a sport like football that has a long and grueling season. 

The Gunners have some talented young forwards on the youth team, but Niang provides depth and most importantly, more potential. 

Production and Talent on the Pitch

All of this makes it sound like Niang is some no-name player who has never done anything in a match before, but that's just not true. 

While he still needs plenty of development, Niang has experience that most 17-year-old players simply don't have. In 23 appearances for Caen in Ligue 1 last season, Niang scored two goals and got off 1.2 shots per game. 

He's not the best distributor, but the kid can be a force in the box. There is without a doubt potential here. 

So, while this isn't the signing that most Gunner fans will be on the edge of their seats for, it's one that makes sense, just for smaller, underlying reasons. 

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