Arsenal eye Nigerian Bundesliga star to fix goal issues

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Arsenal's attack is, without a shadow of a doubt, its priority in the January transfer window.

While Arsenal have a strikeforce worthy of envy, it is not without issues. Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah have been lacking sharpness in front of goal. Contributions from Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka have also not been sufficient, especially in games where they have to dig deeper.

“We have to try to generate. If we don’t score with 30 shots, then we have to do 50 or 60 to try to score. That’s the only thing. I can’t imagine a game where we have more touches in the box, more dominance and fewer situations for the opponent against a really good West Ham side. Today, though, it wasn’t enough to win the game.” Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta lamented after suffering a loss to London rivals West Ham.

Arsenal lead the chase for Victor Boniface

Victor Boniface of Bayer Leverkusen
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To solve this issue, the Gunners are reportedly closing on Nigerian forward Victor Boniface. The 23-year-old's impressive performances for German side Bayer 04 Leverkusen have attracted the interest of several potential suitors, with the English side reportedly leading the race.

With 16 goals and eight assists in 23 appearances, Boniface, who joined Leverkusen from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise in July last year, has been crucial to Xabi Alonso’s team leading the Bundesliga table. So far, they are unbeaten in the league and are currently four points clear of the defending champions Bayern Munich.

Boniface key to Super Eagles' AFCON quest

Victor Boniface in Nigeria colours
Photo by Icon sport

A clinical finisher and capable of playing anywhere across the frontline, Boniface could be exactly what the Gunners are looking for. He can hold up the ball and link up well, along with a great finishing instinct, as his returns this season suggest.

Boniface is currently away on international duty, hoping to shine for the Super Eagles at the upcoming AFCON in Ivory Coast. The Super Eagles last won the tournament in 2013. And they placed in Group A alongside hosts Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau and Equatorial Guinea,

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Godfred Budu

Godfred Budu is a Ghanaian sports journalist with over a decade of experience, offering a dynamic perspective on African football, particularly Nigerian football. A dedicated follower of Enyimba United, he has developed a deep understanding of the Nigerian football scene.

Godfred has contributed to prominent platforms such as Kickgh.com and Inkandkicks.com, where his insightful commentary and in-depth analysis of both Ghanaian and Nigerian football have earned him recognition.
Known for his passion for storytelling and commitment to accuracy, he has become a trusted authority in sports journalism, captivating audiences with his engaging narratives and expert insights into the African football landscape.

Holding a degree in Integrated Development Studies (Social and Development Administration option) from the University for Development Studies, Ghana, Godfred’s work continues to resonate with fans of both Ghanaian and Nigerian football, where his expertise stands out.