Victor Boniface Seeks Immediate Exit from Bayer Leverkusen

Nigerian international Victor Boniface is pushing for an immediate exit from Bayer Leverkusen, with two unnamed clubs already making formal enquiries. Leverkusen is prepared to sanction either a permanent sale or a loan departure. This development represents a significant escalation from October when Leverkusen's managing director, Simon Rolfes, dismissed initial suggestions that Boniface wanted to leave.

Boniface's reduced playing time has seen him bumped down to third-choice striker under head coach Carles Martínez. He currently sits behind Patrik Schick and Christian Kofane in the attacking pecking order. His domestic involvement has been limited to just 15 minutes of senior football this season, consisting of a three-minute cameo in a DFB-Pokal victory and 12 total minutes in two Bundesliga substitute appearances.

The situation marks a steep decline from Boniface's initial impact in Germany, which was derailed by persistent injury problems. Leverkusen signed Boniface from Union Saint-Gilloise in August 2023, and he produced 14 goals and eight assists in 1,554 minutes to help the club secure the 2023/24 Bundesliga title. However, subsequent injury issues hampered his progress and led to a disappointing loan spell at Werder Bremen during the 2025/26 campaign.

Boniface's frustration with his peripheral role boiled over earlier this season when he stormed down the tunnel following a 4-3 away victory over 1. FSV Mainz 05. With his current contract running until June 2028, a January move appears necessary to resurrect his stalled career. Leverkusen is willing to negotiate without demanding an immediate financial commitment, making a mid-season loan a viable avenue for Boniface to secure regular football.

According to reports from Sky Sport, the departure is now considered concrete, with Leverkusen prepared to let Boniface go, including on loan. The club's willingness to negotiate without an immediate financial commitment suggests that a loan deal could be a possible solution. This would allow Boniface to secure regular football and potentially boost his chances of making the Nigerian national team.

Boniface's reduced playing time has also seen him omitted from Leverkusen's UEFA Europa League squad. His lack of match action has been a significant concern, and a move away from Leverkusen could provide him with the opportunity to regain his form and confidence. The 25-year-old had a successful initial spell in Germany, but his progress has been hindered by injury issues and a decline in playing time.

A January move could be crucial for Boniface's career, allowing him to secure regular football and potentially boost his chances of making the Nigerian national team. With two enquiries already made, it remains to be seen which club will secure his services. Boniface's situation will likely be resolved in the coming weeks as the January transfer window approaches.

Key points

• Victor Boniface wants to leave Bayer Leverkusen due to reduced playing time.
• Two unnamed clubs have made formal enquiries regarding Boniface's transfer.
• Leverkusen is prepared to sanction either a permanent sale or a loan departure.