Exclusive: Nigeria Legend Jay-Jay Okocha Offers Advice to Boniface and Osimhen Amid Transfer Talk

Former Nigeria captain Jay-Jay Okocha has urged Victor Boniface to fight for his place at Bayer Leverkusen under new manager Erik ten Hag amid speculation over the striker’s future.

Boniface, 23, has struggled for consistent game time and recently slipped behind Patrick Schick in the pecking order. He has been linked with potential moves to Premier League clubs Newcastle United and Aston Villa, as well as Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr.

Ten Hag, who was recently appointed as Leverkusen boss following his exit from Manchester United, faces a major rebuilding task after the departures of star players Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool.

Boniface to Prove His Worth

Speaking exclusively to SportsBoom.com during a Bundesliga promotional event in Nigeria, Okocha said Boniface must now focus on convincing Ten Hag of his value.

“I think he's a good player and has been a loyal servant for Leverkusen,” said Okocha.

“He has also represented Nigeria and Africa very well in the Bundesliga. He will need to fight for his place, embrace his new manager, and prove that he deserves to be in the team.”

Okocha acknowledged Boniface’s injury struggles last season but welcomed the striker’s return to fitness.

“Of course, he struggled in the second season—he was injured—and it takes time to return to top form after a serious injury. But we’re glad he’s fit now.”

On whether Boniface should leave the Bundesliga, Okocha said the decision lies with the player.

“Whatever he decides, I wish him the best.”

Kompany's Bayern Triumph Praised

Okocha also commented on the recently concluded 2024/25 Bundesliga season, praising Vincent Kompany for guiding Bayern Munich to the league title in his first season at the club.

Eintracht Frankfurt, Okocha’s former team, secured a UEFA Champions League spot with a final-day 3-1 victory, but Bayern were crowned champions after reclaiming the title from Leverkusen.

“The season was exciting. Bayern didn’t have it easy—they had to fight for the title, and it was well deserved,” he said.

“You have to give Kompany credit. Winning the league in your first season is no small feat. It’s never easy to arrive at a new club and immediately build a cohesive team. But the power and structure Bayern have made it possible for him.”

Osimhen Must Decide His Own Future

Okocha also weighed in on the ongoing transfer saga surrounding Victor Osimhen, describing the striker as Nigeria’s “most prized asset.”

Osimhen, 26, remains under contract with Napoli but has been the subject of intense transfer speculation for over a year. The former Wolfsburg forward came close to joining Chelsea last summer, but negotiations collapsed, and he spent the season on loan at Galatasaray, where he impressed.

Reports suggest Osimhen has now rejected a lucrative €40m-per-year offer from Saudi club Al Hilal. 

Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United have all reportedly been in talks to sign the forward as they look to strengthen their attack ahead of next season’s Premier League title defence.

Okocha, who made 124 appearances for Bolton Wanderers, urged Osimhen to make his decision.

“As a top football player, it’s important that he makes the decision himself,” said Okocha.

“Whatever happens next, he’ll be responsible for it and must stand by his choice. I’d advise him to make his own decision—not let others, even his manager, dictate it.”

“Whatever he chooses to do, we’ll support him and wish him all the best.”