Bayer Leverkusen, currently a top the Bundesliga ahead of German giants Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, seeks a solution to their “Victor Boniface” problem as the transfer window opens.
The window opening prompted Bayer Leverkusen coach, Xabi Alonso, to express his intent to replace the injured Victor Boniface. Boniface was sidelined until April due to requiring surgery for his groin injury.
“We are not under pressure to get a new player, but we are always ready. If there is an option, we will look at it. It has to make sense,” Alonso stated, ahead of their Bundesliga restart against Augsburg which took place on the 13th of January.
Boniface’s injury has ruled him out of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) with his national team, Nigeria, and several Bundesliga games for Leverkusen. The impact of his absence was somewhat softened by the presence of Patrick Schick, who will take Boniface’s place. Meanwhile, Nigeria can rely on Victor Oshimen to lead the line in the AFCON.
Beyond Boniface’s injury, Bayer Leverkusen is several players short due to the AFCON. Despite the challenges, Alonso expressed his team’s readiness for what lies ahead, stating that they have a “good squad.”
Boniface’s remarkable journey from Nigeria to Norway, then Belgium, and finally Germany, set the stage for potential replacements. Here are a few strikers Leverkusen could consider:
- Armando Broja:
The Albanian international, yet to secure a regular starting spot at Chelsea, could be enticed by a move away. Possessing technical prowess and physical agility, Broja demonstrates versatility on either wing, posing a consistent goal threat.
- Elye Wahi:
Hailing from Ligue 1’s RC Lens, Wahi is considered a rising gem with impressive shooting and finishing abilities. His diverse range of goal-scoring techniques, including mid-air strikes and adept header usage, showcases his natural goal-scoring instinct.
- Emanuel Emegha:
A powerful and athletic 20 year old forward from France, Emegha, combines height with agility, excelling in dribbles and set-piece situations. His goal-scoring prowess and ability to exploit defensive vulnerabilities make him a valuable option.
- Andreas Schjelderup:
While not a natural striker at Benfica, the guidance of Alonso could elevate Schjelderup into a world-class player. The youthful attacking midfielder exhibits remarkable technical skills, challenging opposing defenses with exceptional dribbling, ball control, and technique.
