Victor Boniface wants January exit: 3 clubs that could revive Super Eagles striker’s career

Victor Boniface wants to leave Bayer Leverkusen in January 2027 after struggling for playing time at the Bundesliga club.

According to Sky Germany, the Nigerian striker’s representatives have informed Leverkusen of his desire to move, either on loan or permanently, in search of regular football.

Boniface joined Leverkusen in 2023 and helped the club win the Bundesliga title unbeaten in the 2023/24 season. He has since struggled to get back to his best, and a January move could give him the chance to get his career back on track.

AC Milan, West Ham United and Feyenoord are three clubs that could offer the 25-year-old a fresh start, although none has been confirmed as a potential destination.

Why Victor Boniface wants to leave Bayer Leverkusen

Boniface has made just one Bundesliga appearance this season, playing five minutes in Leverkusen’s opening defeat to Elversberg.

His situation worsened when the club left him out of their Europa League squad. When forward Martin Terrier suffered an injury in late October, Leverkusen chose to register veteran midfielder Jonas Hofmann rather than give Boniface another chance.

Patrik Schick and young Cameroonian forward Christian Kofane are also ahead of him in the fight for a starting place.

Leverkusen coach Carles Martinez and managing director Simon Rolfes have publicly raised concerns about Boniface’s fitness and ability to meet the demands of the team’s playing style.

His lack of playing time has also hurt his chances of returning to the Super Eagles squad. A move in January could give him the opportunity to regain his form and put himself back in contention for a national team place.

Boniface’s contract runs until June 2029, but Leverkusen are reportedly willing to consider a loan or permanent transfer.

AC Milan

AC Milan could give Victor Boniface another chance to prove himself in Serie A.

The Italian club was previously linked with the Nigerian, with reports suggesting the two parties had reached an agreement in principle before medical concerns disrupted the proposed transfer.

Standing at 1.90 metres, Boniface has the strength to compete with defenders, hold up the ball and bring his teammates into play. Those qualities could suit Milan if they decide to strengthen their attack.

A move to Italy would also give him the chance to put his difficult spell in Germany behind him and show that he can still perform at the highest level.

However, Milan have shown no interest in signing him in January and his fitness would likely be an important factor in any deal.

West Ham United

West Ham United could offer Boniface a route into English football.

The Londoners have previously been linked with the striker, with reports suggesting they made an attempt to sign him during an earlier transfer window.

Boniface’s physical presence and ability to hold up the ball could suit West Ham’s approach, particularly when playing with direct wingers who look to deliver crosses into the box.

Regular football in the Championship could also help him regain his confidence, provided he can stay fit and cope with the demands of the English second-tier.

Feyenoord

Feyenoord could offer Boniface the chance to rebuild his confidence in a league known for its attacking football.

The Dutch club have previously been linked with strengthening their forward line, and Boniface could appeal to them because of his strength, movement and ability to finish chances.

Although Boniface has never played in the Netherlands, his experience in European football could help him settle into a new environment. Before joining Leverkusen, he played for Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt and Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise.

The Eredivisie could give him the regular opportunities he needs to rediscover his goalscoring form. A strong run of performances could also improve his chances of returning to the Super Eagles.