Exclusive: Leverkusen’s New Era Pushes Victor Boniface Down the Pecking Order Amid Premier League Interest

Victor Boniface was one of the undisputed heroes of Bayer Leverkusen’s historic 2023/24 season. The Nigerian forward played a key role in Die Werkself’s unbeaten Bundesliga run and DFB-Pokal triumph, scoring 21 goals in all competitions. Yet, just one year after signing a long-term deal, the 24-year-old now finds himself facing an uncertain future.

The reason? The arrival of Erik ten Hag.

Slipping Down the Ladder

Since the former Manchester United boss was officially unveiled as Leverkusen’s new head coach, there’s been a clear shift in the attacking hierarchy. Multiple sources close to the club reveal that Ten Hag has identified Czech international Patrik Schick as his primary No. 9 for the new season.

That decision, combined with the emergence of Amine Adli and an incoming young striker; believed to be 18-year-old Cameroonian forward Christian Kofane, has pushed Boniface alarmingly down the pecking order. From being the face of Leverkusen’s resurgence just 12 months ago, he now finds himself fourth choice in the attack.

“There’s a clear direction Ten Hag wants to go,” one source said. 

“Schick fits the profile for his system, and the club is building around that idea.”

While Boniface is known for his work rate and dynamism, Ten Hag appears to be opting for a more traditional centre-forward in Schick, who finished last season strongly.

Club insiders also hint that Leverkusen are willing to listen to offers for Boniface, with a valuation in the region of €50 million. 

Premier League interest Intensifies

Boniface’s apparent slide has not gone unnoticed. Several Premier League clubs have already begun making background checks in recent weeks, eyeing a possible move for the Nigerian international.

Newcastle United are believed to be monitoring the situation closely, especially as they continue to weigh attacking reinforcements. West Ham United are also keeping tabs, while Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea have both been linked in the past and could revisit their interest if Boniface becomes officially available.

With Leverkusen’s need to finance Ten Hag’s rebuild, Boniface could emerge as the club’s marquee sale this summer; if the player agrees to a move.

From breakout star to uncertain role

Boniface’s current predicament is as unexpected as it is frustrating. He joined Leverkusen from Union Saint-Gilloise in the summer of 2023 and hit the ground running, ending his debut Bundesliga season with 13 goals and 9 assists in just 22 appearances, despite an injury-hit second half. He was named DFL Rookie of the Season and played a pivotal role in securing the club’s first-ever Bundesliga crown.

He even extended his contract last July, tying his future to the club until 2028; a move that was widely celebrated in Germany and Nigeria alike.

Now, just a year later, he could be forced to move on.

Sources close to the player say Boniface remains professional and motivated, but is also keen to play regular football; especially with AFCON 2025 and the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon. At 24, and with 13 caps for the Super Eagles, he knows consistent minutes will be vital to maintaining his form and international standing.

With Ten Hag initiating a tactical reshuffle and placing his faith in other forwards, Boniface’s next move; whether to fight for his place or seek a new challenge, could define the next chapter of his promising career.

For now, the spotlight remains firmly on him.

We will continue to monitor Boniface’s situation as it develops, with updates from Germany and beyond.