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United eye Boniface as Gyökeres alternative

By Daily Sports Nigeria on November 27, 2024

Manchester United have reportedly identified Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface as an alternative to Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyökeres in their search for attacking reinforcements, according to transfer journalist Florian Plettenberg.

The 23-year-old Nigeria international has been in sensational form in the Bundesliga, scoring eight goals and providing one assist in 11 starts this season. However, a muscle injury sustained while on international duty with the Super Eagles has ruled Boniface out until January 2025, temporarily halting his impressive campaign under Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso.

United’s interest in Boniface comes as they assess options to bolster their attack following underwhelming performances from Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee. Plettenberg reports that Boniface is one of several strikers on the club’s radar, though a transfer would require a significant financial outlay, with a deal likely to materialise in the summer rather than the January window.

Gyökeres, currently one of Europe’s most in-form forwards, remains another strong contender for United. His successful stint under former manager Ruben Amorim at Sporting Lisbon strengthens his link to the Old Trafford side.

However, questions persist about whether Gyökeres can replicate his form in one of Europe’s top five leagues, potentially making Boniface a more appealing, long-term option given his proven record at a higher level.

Boniface’s injury has also affected Leverkusen’s plans, with the club missing his services in critical fixtures, including Champions League matches against RB Salzburg and Inter Milan, and a DFB-Pokal clash against Bayern Munich in December. With fellow forward Amine Adli also sidelined, Alonso is expected to rely on Patrik Schick to lead the line during this challenging period.

Despite criticism of his performances for the Super Eagles, where he is yet to score in 11 appearances, Boniface’s club form has kept him in high demand. His recovery and future transfer prospects will be closely watched by Manchester United and other European clubs eyeing a young, prolific forward to revitalise their attack.

Source Punch Ng

Posted November 27, 2024