In a surprising turn of events, Nigerian international Victor Boniface’s anticipated £50 million transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr has collapsed. This development has opened the door for Premier League powerhouses Manchester United, Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur to consider acquiring the prolific striker.
The Al-Nassr Deal That Wasn’t
Boniface, 24, had reportedly reached an agreement with Al-Nassr and even completed a medical examination. However, the Saudi club shifted their focus and secured the signing of Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran instead, leaving Boniface’s move unfinalized. Reflecting on the situation, Boniface stated, “Transfer rumors are normal in football. It’s always flattering when big clubs show interest, but my focus right now is 100% on Bayer Leverkusen.”
Premier League Clubs Enter the Fray
With the Al-Nassr deal off the table, Boniface has been offered to several top English clubs:
- Arsenal: Manager Mikel Arteta is actively seeking attacking reinforcements due to injuries to key players Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka. The Gunners recently had a £60 million bid for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins rejected and are now exploring alternatives, including Boniface.
- Manchester United: The Red Devils have struggled offensively this season, netting just 28 goals in 23 Premier League matches. Summer signing Rasmus Hojlund has managed only two league goals in 18 appearances, prompting the club to consider bolstering their attacking options with Boniface’s proven prowess.
- Tottenham Hotspur: Spurs are facing an attacking crisis, with injuries sidelining forwards Dominic Solanke, Brennan Johnson, Wilson Odobert, and Timo Werner. Manager Ange Postecoglou is in dire need of a reliable striker to maintain the club’s competitive edge, making Boniface a viable target.
Boniface’s Stellar Record
Since joining Bayer Leverkusen, Boniface has been a standout performer. In his debut season, he scored 21 goals and provided 10 assists in 34 appearances across all competitions, playing a pivotal role in securing the club’s first-ever Bundesliga title. His efforts earned him the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season award.
Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has lauded Boniface’s contributions, stating, “Victor’s a real problem for opposition defenses. He’s powerful, quick, and makes runs from deep. He has a good mentality and works for the team, not for himself.”
Despite a hamstring injury limiting his appearances this season, Boniface has continued to impress, netting six goals in 10 Bundesliga games before a two-month absence. His overall career statistics are equally impressive, with 69 goals and 31 assists in 167 appearances.
Leverkusen’s Stance and Transfer Possibilities
While Bayer Leverkusen is prepared to reintegrate Boniface into their squad, the club remains open to selling the Nigerian international before the transfer window closes. The collapse of the Al-Nassr deal has prompted Boniface’s representatives to explore opportunities in the Premier League, offering him to clubs in need of attacking reinforcements.
Arsenal’s Transfer Strategy
Arsenal, in particular, is actively seeking to strengthen their forward line. Following the rejection of their bid for Ollie Watkins, the Gunners are considering late moves for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic and Newcastle’s Alexander Isak. Boniface has now emerged as a potential target to address their offensive challenges.
Conclusion
Victor Boniface’s unexpected availability has injected excitement into the final days of the transfer window. His proven goal-scoring ability and dynamic playing style make him an attractive prospect for Premier League clubs aiming to bolster their attacking options. As the transfer deadline approaches, it remains to be seen which club will secure the services of this talented Nigerian striker.
