Transfer: Why European giants can’t ignore Boniface

The lightning rise of Victor Boniface continues after the Nigerian striker delivered a standout performance in his Champions League debut on Thursday, further cementing his status as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.

The Bayer Leverkusen striker has quickly become a key figure in Xabi Alonso’s squad, with his recent displays drawing attention from top European clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea.

FootballTransfers journalist Tom Weber in an article on Friday analysing Boniface’s feats added that he is a man in form right now.

Victor Boniface (Credit: Victor Boniface, X) 

Following his Man of the Match performance against Hoffenheim over the weekend, Boniface was at his best once again as Leverkusen cruised past Feyenoord in their Champions League clash on Thursday.

While Florian Wirtz garnered attention for his two-goal display, Boniface stole the show with a stunning no-look pass in the build-up to Leverkusen’s second goal, which has gone viral on social media.

The 23-year-old striker, faced with two Feyenoord defenders, retained possession, wriggled free and feigned a shot before delivering a left-footed, no-look pass to set up Jeremie Frimpong’s cross, leading to Alejandro Grimaldo’s goal.

Boniface’s unique style of play and impressive technical ability have made him a standout talent.

Victor Boniface (Credit: Victor Boniface, X)

His teammates share the sentiment, praising his skills and creativity.

Wirtz said, “He is the best in the world [at this trick]. He can do extraordinary things with the ball.”

Meanwhile, Granit Xhaka noted how this is a regular occurrence in training, saying, “It’s nothing new for us because he does it a lot in training. It’s obviously brutal for the opponent.”

Despite standing tall like a traditional centre-forward, Boniface moves with the agility and trickery of a winger or No.10, a combination that makes him incredibly difficult to defend against.

His blend of strength, skill, and speed has many in Europe watching closely, especially as Arsenal and Chelsea, both linked with him in the spring, might renew their interest.

Weber added, “His only obvious flaw is the fact that he can be profligate with his chances and this, in conjunction with his two ACL injuries at just 23, means that Europe’s elites have thus far refrained from taking a chance on him.

“However, his form this season and for most of last term (when he was fit) makes it clear that it is only a matter of time before the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea – who were linked in the spring – come calling again. Boniface looks destined for a lucrative transfer.”