Latest developments
- Man Utd want to refresh attack for Ruben Amorim
- Shortlist Bayer Leverkusen's Victor Boniface
- Man Utd aiming for a January move
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (5/5): As reliable as a source can be
The inability of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee to score goals has been a major issue for Manchester United this season. Neither strikers has claimed the number nine spot, as both seem to struggle for form.
The Red Devils are looking to bring in fresh faces for new boss Ruben Amorim and have now earmarked Bayer Leverkusen's Nigerian striker Boniface as per Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg.
?? Victor #Boniface is one of many strikers on Manchester United’s shortlist. If at all, an (expensive) sale would only become a serious topic next summer.
23-year-old top striker (currently injured) is under contract with Bayer 04 Leverkusen until 2028. #MUFC
The Red… pic.twitter.com/Hlhgccb6aZ
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) November 25, 2024
Plettenberg is potentially the most reputable source in terms of the accuracy of transfer news related to the German football market, and there is no reason to believe the report regarding Boniface is inaccurate.
Value (3/5): Bayer Leverkusen unwilling to sell Boniface
As per Transfermarkt, Boniface is rated at €45 million (£37.5m) and has a contract with Leverkusen until the summer of 2028 with Die Werkself. A potential transfer fee has not been mentioned in the report for Boniface, however, the aforementioned details and the Bundesliga champions' unwillingness to let the Nigerian leave in January may mean that Leverkusen may not let the striker depart for a fee less than €70 million (£58.4m) this winter.
As such, the transfer may put a lot of strain on the already unstable economic books of Manchester United.
Suitability (5/5): Boniface could be Amorim's Gyokeres at Man Utd
Amorim has brought over his 3-4-3 tactic from Sporting to Manchester United this month and that formation was exactly what he used in his debut match against Ipswich Town, however, he started Marcus Rashford as the dynamic number nine instead of Hojlund or Zirkzee, who are more traditional strikers.
As such, the Portuguese coach will be hopeful that United bring in a more dynamic striker to his squad who can serve as the number nine in the 3-4-3, and Boniface is certainly that man for Amorim as the Nigerian plays the same role in a 3-4-3 for Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen and has grown very comfortable in the role.
Upgrade? (4/5): Hojlund better but won't suit Amorim
When looking at Hojlund and Boniface side-by-side, the Danish striker might still hold the highest promise in terms of potential. However, Boniface will be an upgrade for Amorim due to his experience of playing with a top side regularly, and his comfort with starting in the role that Amorim's plans require may make him a major upgrade on Hojlund.
Logic (5/5): Boniface's big move could unlock United
Everything about this transfer makes a lot of sense as Boniface seems like a certain candidate to succeed under Amorim, and the Nigerian would likely not be too opposed to making the move to Old Trafford. Additionally, United need a striker in the squad who can play as a number nine for the Portuguese coach right from the outset and not need time to settle into the rhythm of a new tactic as is the case with Hojlund at the moment.
Whisper+ final verdict – 22/25
Amorim's move to United will contribute to making Old Trafford a desirable destination for the sport's best emerging stars.
As such, a move to Manchester for Boniface will also be highly beneficial for both parties, as the Nigerian makes the move to a top side, while United begin their journey towards becoming a real contender for the Premier League yet again.
