Premier League giants Man United are in the market for a striker and have reportedly added another Nigerian to their list of options which already includes Victor Osimhen.
Manchester United's search for a prolific striker has taken a distinctly Nigerian flavour, with Bayer Leverkusen's Victor Boniface emerging as a prime target alongside his Super Eagles compatriot, Victor Osimhen.
The Premier League giants, desperate to bolster their attacking line for the 2025/26 season, have reportedly drawn up a list of ten potential centre-forward signings, and the two Nigerian stars are firmly in their sights.
Boniface, currently valued at €45 million, has been a revelation in the Bundesliga. During Leverkusen's historic title-winning campaign last season, the ex-Union St. Gilloise striker scored an impressive 21 goals and provided 10 assists, showing his lethal finishing and playmaking ability.
This season, despite starting just 14 games, the 24-year-old has already notched 10 goals and two assists to prove that his debut season was no fluke.
His form has made him a standout option for United, who are seeking a reliable goalscorer to address their offensive woes, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.
Meanwhile, Osimhen, the Napoli star on loan at Galatasaray, remains a long-standing target for the Red Devils.
Known for his explosive pace and aerial ability, Osimhen has consistently delivered at the highest level, making him one of Europe's most coveted forwards.
However, his price tag, €70 million, which is more than Boniface's €45 million valuation, has always been a big problem for teams and could complicate United's pursuit, especially as the club looks to balance ambition with financial prudence under the INEOS regime.
The need for a new striker at Old Trafford has become glaringly apparent. Despite spending over £100 million on Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, neither has met expectations, leaving the team short of firepower.
With new manager Ruben Amorim now at the helm, United are determined to find a proven marksman capable of delivering at least 20 goals a season, na benchmark Boniface has already proven he can meet.
Boniface's rise has not come without challenges. Injuries have plagued the Nigerian international, causing him to miss 30 games over the past two seasons, a concern for a United side desperate for consistency.
Still, his current deal with Leverkusen runs until 2028, though the German champions are keen to extend it by another year.
Should Manchester United make a serious move, however, Xabi Alonso's side might struggle to retain their star striker, especially if the Red Devils leverage their financial muscle and storied history.
For United, Boniface represents a cost-effective alternative to Osimhen and other high-profile targets like Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres.
His market value offers a compelling case compared to the heftier fees demanded for his Super Eagles teammate.
Both Nigerians bring unique strengths, Boniface with his versatility and physical presence, and Osimhen with his relentless energy and goal-scoring instinct, making them tantalising prospects for a club eager to reclaim its attacking identity.
Whether INEOS opts for Boniface's value or Osimhen's proven pedigree, the Red Devils' Nigerian connection could define their resurgence in the seasons to come.
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