Victor Boniface is attracting interest from a host of Europe's top sides, with several sides keeping a close eye on the Super Eagles forward.
The Bayer Leverkusen forward has been in top-form so far this season, bagging an impressive seven goals and two assists in just seven Bundesliga matches.
His recent call-up to the Nigerian national team would has further seen interest in the player rise to the very peak. The 22-year-old enjoyed a solid performance against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique, showing promise of what is to come in a Super Eagles jersey.
He might not have scored a goal in any of those matches but his presence caused havoc for the opposition’s defense, resulting in an own goal during the 2-2 draw against Saudi Arabia.
Victor Boniface is now one of the most promising young strikers in world football and it will not come as a surprise if a big move is on the cards.
🚨Brighton & Hove Albion, and Newcastle United and West Ham United are monitoring the situation of Bayer Leverkusen's 22-year-old Nigerian striker Victor Boniface.
🇳🇬 #Bayer04 🔴⚫ #BayerLeverkusen pic.twitter.com/ZSFrXLIUSM— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) October 19, 2023
As per the latest reports, the Premier League trio of Newcastle, West Ham and Brighton are interested in the Nigerian while La Liga giants Real Madrid are also keeping close tabs on his situation.
Newcastle leading the race to sign Victor Boniface
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is actively pushing for the Magpies to sign Boniface from Bayer Leverkusen.
Howe’s love for the young forward's physicality, combined with the presence of dynamic duo Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson, makes the idea of his addition an exciting prospect for the club.
Having joined Bayer Leverkusen from Union Saint-Gilloise for a £12m fee this summer, Boniface has immediately adjusted to life in the Bundesliga, showing his efficiency in front of goal, qualities that have surely been noticed by Newcastle’s management.
Newcastle, who currently find themselves eighth in the Premier League after eight gameweeks, have not had problems in front of goal, scoring 20 times – only behind Brighton & Hove Albion in that regard.
Regardless of that, their conversion rate has been somewhat questionable, showing the need to bolster their attacking options.
As Newcastle aim to remain in the Champions League, the potential transfer of Boniface during the upcoming January transfer window could prove to be a bargain guy as they aim to also finish higher in the Premier League.
The Magpies will have to fend off competition for Boniface though, as Real Madrid also have strong interest in the youngster.
Boniface claimed the Bundesliga Rookie of the Month awards for August and September, while he also named the league’s Player of the Month in his debut month.
Boniface to be handed more Super Eagles chances
While Boniface is excelling in club colours for Bayer Leverkusen, the recent injury sustained by Victor Osimhen means the 22-year-old could lead the line for the Super Eagles in their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers in November.
Osimhen is the undisputed star name in attack for Jose Peseiro but Boniface would be looking to make the most of the chances set to be handed to him, especially ahead of the upcoming AFCON tournament in January.
This article was most recently revised and updated 2 weeks ago
