German Bundesliga campaigners Bayer 04 Leverkusen have endured a disappointing season due to unforeseen challenges in the striker department.
This Soccernet.ng report explores the team's struggles, highlights the underperformance of key players, and introduces Gift Orban as a potential solution to their goal-scoring woes.
Struggles with strikers, key players
At the start of the season, Bayer Leverkusen had high hopes for Patrik Schick, a player considered a future top scorer.
Alongside promising talents Sardar Azmoun and Adam Hlozek, the team seemed destined for success.
However, reality took a different course as none of the Bayer 04 stars reached the coveted double-digit goal tally.
While wingers Moussa Diaby and Jeremie Frimpong performed admirably last season, netting nine and eight goals, respectively, the supposed attacking powerhouses—Hlozek, Azmoun, and Schick—failed to meet expectations, with only five, four, and three goals, respectively.
Schick's prolonged form crisis and subsequent injury kept him sidelined for most of the latter half of the season, exacerbating the team's offensive struggles.
The potential solution – Gift Orban
To address their pressing issue, Bayer 04 Leverkusen have set their sights on Gift Orban, the Nigerian prodigy currently playing for KAA Gent in the Jupiler Pro League.
The 20-year-old kid wonder has captured attention with an exceptional goal-scoring record, boasting 20 goals in 21 games across the Belgian and conference leagues.
Notably, Orban's ability to replicate his domestic success on the European stage distinguishes him from other potential targets.
Competition and financial considerations
Bayer Leverkusen faces stiff competition in securing Orban's services, as other clubs have also recognized his precise finishing and overall brilliance.
Gent reportedly want €50 million for Orban, a fee only a few outside of Europe's heavyweights can afford.
The management must navigate the financial aspects of this potential transfer, which could pose a challenge.
The path ahead
Having qualified for the Europa League, Bayer 04 Leverkusen must start planning for the upcoming season.
To become a serious contender in the competitions they have qualified for, the team must bolster their attacking arsenal by acquiring the services of Gift Orban.
With his proven scoring prowess, the Nigerian prodigy possesses the potential to reignite Leverkusen's goal-scoring capabilities.
Conclusion
As Bayer Leverkusen aims to strengthen its foundation, the addition of Gift Orban could serve as the catalyst to propel them back into the upper echelons of German football.
With the team's sights set on success, Orban's talent and scoring ability offer hope for a brighter future
