Arsene Wenger met with the press ahead of Arsenal’s game against Watford and he was asked about their latest arrival, M’Baye Niang.

He is a player, the boss confirmed, that he knows well – Niang was heavily linked with a move to Arsenal before he signed for AC Milan. He will now spend the rest of the season on loan with the Hornets and Wenger knows exactly what to expect from him.

“I know him well because he played in Caen,” Wenger said. “We had him here. He is a very talented striker, individually can create chances.

“He’s very strong as well, physically and very quick. I think he will be a major asset for them.

“He’s on loan from Milan and we have to keep him quiet because he can do something special.”

Still only 22, the right-footer has scored three goals and grabbed three assists in 18 games in Serie A this season.

It’s not clear why Arsenal were unable to sign the player when they took him on trial back in 2012. It was reported at the time that Caen rejected Arsenal’s £5m offer, wanting £7m upfront for the player who was then only 17.

In the end, AC Milan paid £2.55m for him and the player signed a three-year deal (renewed and extended until 2019). His current market value is approximately £12.75m.

Source: Arsene Wenger press conference, Evening Standard