To sign the Nigerian player who is quickly making a name for himself as a potent forward for Jose Peseiro's Super Eagles team, the Magpies will square off against Real Madrid
Premier League side Newcastle United have set their sights on Bayer Leverkusen's Victor Boniface, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 22-year-old Nigerian striker has been a standout performer this season, notching up an impressive tally of seven goals and two assists in just seven Bundesliga matches.
His recent call-up to the Nigerian national team after a solid performance against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique has only heightened interest in the player.
Although he did not find the net in those matches, his dynamic presence caused trouble for the opposition's defense, resulting in an own goal during the 2-2 draw against Saudi Arabia.
According to the Sun, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is closely monitoring Boniface.
Howe's admiration for the young striker's physicality, coupled with his existing strike force of Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson, makes the potential addition an appealing prospect for the club.
Having moved to Bayer Leverkusen from Union Saint-Gilloise for a fee of £12 million this summer, Boniface has seamlessly adapted to the demands of the German top flight, showcasing his dribbling skills and finishing abilities, qualities that have not gone unnoticed by Newcastle's management.
The Magpies, currently positioned eighth in the Premier League after eight games, have been prolific in front of the goal, scoring 20 times – second only to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Despite this, their conversion rate has left room for improvement, prompting the need to reinforce their attacking options.
With Newcastle eyeing a return to the Champions League, the potential acquisition of Boniface during the upcoming January transfer window could prove pivotal in bolstering their chances of achieving this goal.
The Magpies are, however, not the only side interested in Boniface as Real Madrid have reportedly placed the youngster on their wishlist.
Boniface won the Bundesliga Rookie of the Month awards for August and September and he was also the league's Player of the Month in his debut month.
It will be interesting to see 30-year-old is keen on a return to the Premier League in January. The report claims that Newcastle could submit an offer as soon as the transfer window reopens