Former Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen have placed a €50 million price tag on Nigeria international Victor Boniface, signaling their willingness to part ways with the talented forward during the summer transfer window. The decision comes as the club prepares for a new era following the departure of head coach Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid.
The 24-year-old striker, who joined the German side from Belgian outfit Union Saint-Gilloise in the summer of 2023, has had an eventful spell in Germany, including a promising start, injury setbacks, and transfer interest from elite clubs across Europe and the Middle East.
According to club insiders, Leverkusen’s valuation of Boniface is strategic, as the management looks to generate funds for squad reinforcements ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. The club is reportedly targeting key signings to remain competitive domestically and in European competitions under new leadership.
Strategic Sale to Fund New Era
Leverkusen’s sporting director, Simon Rolfes, is believed to be spearheading the summer reshuffle, aiming to bolster multiple positions on the pitch. Speaking to local media earlier this month, Rolfes hinted at “bold decisions” ahead to reshape the team.
“We are entering a new chapter and need to be flexible with our squad. Every player has a value, and if the right offer comes, we will evaluate it in the best interest of the club,” Rolfes was quoted as saying.
Boniface, who is still under contract with the club, fits the profile of a player who could attract serious offers due to his youth, strength, and scoring abilities — despite a season hampered by fitness concerns.
Al Nassr Interest and €70m Offer That Fell Through
In January 2025, Boniface was on the verge of making a big-money switch to the Saudi Pro League, with Al Nassr reportedly tabling a €70 million bid. The deal, which would have placed Boniface among the highest-paid African footballers globally, was believed to be at an advanced stage before the Riyadh-based club diverted its attention.
Instead of finalizing a move for Boniface, Al Nassr opted to sign Colombian forward Jhon Durán from English Premier League side Aston Villa. The shift left Boniface at Leverkusen for the remainder of the season, where he struggled to regain peak form due to recurring muscle injuries.
A source close to the player revealed to Africalivenews that the January experience left Boniface both “motivated and cautious” going into the summer window.
“He [Boniface] was disappointed when the Saudi deal collapsed, but it gave him more reason to stay focused. He still dreams of playing at the highest level, whether that’s in Europe or elsewhere,” the source said.
Injury Woes and Mixed Season Performance
The 2024/25 campaign was a rollercoaster for Boniface. After a blistering start, the Nigerian striker was sidelined multiple times with injuries that affected his rhythm and match fitness. Despite his setbacks, he managed to score 11 goals in 27 appearances across all competitions — a respectable tally under the circumstances.
Club medics had earlier confirmed that Boniface suffered from recurring hamstring problems, a common issue for explosive forwards. Leverkusen’s medical team worked intensively with the player, but he never quite regained the consistency that made him a Bundesliga standout in the first half of the season.
Fans, however, remain supportive of the Super Eagles striker, who quickly became a fan favorite following his arrival in Germany. His powerful runs, aerial presence, and aggressive forward play have endeared him to the BayArena faithful.
“I love his energy. Even when he’s not at 100%, you can see he wants to fight for the team,” said Jens Fischer, a Leverkusen season ticket holder.
Boniface’s Market Value and Future Prospects
Boniface’s value in the transfer market remains strong, especially given the current demand for physical, versatile forwards with European and international experience. At 24, he fits the profile of players targeted by English Premier League and Serie A clubs looking for proven quality with room for growth.
His agents are believed to be fielding inquiries from multiple clubs in Italy and England, with a potential move expected to materialize before the close of the summer transfer window.
“We’re open to discussions with clubs that align with Victor’s ambitions,” a representative of the player said, emphasizing that the striker’s priority is joining a team where he will be central to their sporting project.
Nigerian Contingent in Europe Continues to Rise
Victor Boniface is part of a growing wave of Nigerian footballers making their mark in Europe’s top leagues. His performances with Leverkusen, despite injury interruptions, have added to Nigeria’s rising reputation for producing dynamic attackers.
If the €50 million asking price is met, Boniface could become one of the most expensive Nigerian transfers in history — a testament to his quality and market appeal.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is also monitoring the forward’s situation closely, as he is considered a key figure for the Super Eagles ahead of upcoming international competitions.
Conclusion
As Bayer Leverkusen navigate a period of transition, the potential sale of Victor Boniface could prove pivotal in funding the club’s rebuilding plans. With growing interest across Europe and the Middle East, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the next chapter in Boniface’s career.
Whether he remains in Germany, returns to the spotlight with a new European giant, or ventures into the lucrative Saudi market, one thing is clear — Victor Boniface remains one of Nigeria’s most valuable football exports.
