Newcastle eye Nigeria star with more Bundesliga goals than Lookman, Okocha, Oliseh

Newcastle United could have the chance to sign Nigerian forward Victor Boniface this summer, with the Bayer Leverkusen star being offered to the Magpies, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 24-year-old, who played a key role in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga-winning campaign under Xabi Alonso, is open to a move to St James’ Park, according to The Chronicle.

Sources indicate that intermediaries are working on possible exit routes for the striker, and Newcastle has emerged as a possible destination.

Boniface had been on the verge of joining Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in January before the move collapsed.

⚫️ Victor Boniface and Al Nassr, deal OFF.

Nigerian striker won’t join the club, deal was advanced… but never done as Al Nassr never gave final green light. pic.twitter.com/rAyDoryssf

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 29, 2025

The Super Eagles forward has since overcome hamstring issues that hampered his season and remains one of the most highly regarded strikers in German football.

While Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with Boniface in recent times, a move to Newcastle could be a more realistic option for the Nigerian forward.

Despite budget constraints in recent transfer windows, Eddie Howe’s side remains in contention for a top-four finish in the Premier League. However, their overall progress has stalled, and reinforcements in both attack and defence will be necessary to push the team to the next level.

Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has been linked with a move to St James’ Park, with the London club reportedly valuing the Cameroon international at £50 million.

However, Newcastle’s striking options could also be bolstered by Boniface, whose impressive Bundesliga goal-scoring record makes him an enticing prospect.

With Callum Wilson expected to depart this summer, the Magpies are likely to be in the market for a new forward. Boniface would provide quality depth behind Alexander Isak and could prove to be a valuable addition to Howe’s squad.

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Nigeria star Boniface's prolific Bundesliga record

Boniface was a standout performer for Leverkusen in their triumphant 2023-24 Bundesliga campaign, netting 14 goals in just 23 league appearances as Alonso’s side dethroned Bayern Munich.

This season, despite injury setbacks, he has still managed seven goals in 12 league outings.

Boniface back with a bang! ⚽ After months on the sidelines, he returns with a goal and a win for Bayer Leverkusen! Welcome back, Big Boni @boniface_jrn #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/ohdkPZhR08

— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) February 2, 2025

His overall Bundesliga record of 21 goals in 32 matches places him among the most prolific Nigerian strikers to have played in Germany’s top flight. Only Jonathan Akpoborie (60 goals), Victor Agali (32), and Anthony Ujah (30) have scored more Bundesliga goals among Nigerian players.

Notably, Boniface has already outscored some of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers in Bundesliga history, including Austin Okocha (18 goals), Obafemi Martins and Sunday Oliseh (both six goals), and reigning African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman, who netted just five times in 22 appearances for RB Leipzig.

Boniface’s physical presence, movement, and finishing ability make him a strong candidate for the Premier League. His Bundesliga record suggests he could offer a reliable goal-scoring threat while also adding competition for places in Newcastle’s attacking setup.

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With his agents actively seeking a move, it remains to be seen whether Newcastle will take up the opportunity to bring him to England. However, if the Magpies are serious about bolstering their squad ahead of next season, Boniface could be a name to watch in the summer transfer window.