Victor Boniface has reportedly asked to leave Bayer Leverkusen ahead of the January 2027 transfer window after struggling to secure playing time at the Bundesliga club, Footynaija reports.
According to Sky Germany via Transfermarkt, the Nigerian striker’s agent has informed Leverkusen’s management of the 25-year-old’s desire to leave, with a loan move or permanent transfer potentially offering him a fresh start.
Boniface has found opportunities difficult to come by, raising questions about his future at the BayArena. Despite his lack of minutes, however, Leverkusen managing director Simon Rolfes has backed the forward to work his way back into contention.
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“That doesn’t change Boni’s situation. He needs to stay fit, keep at it, and improve, then his opportunity will come. I’m not worried,” Rolfes said.
The Leverkusen executive also pointed to the striker’s progress after a difficult period in the spring, insisting that he was in a better place mentally and physically.
“Since then, he’s been in much better shape, mentally as well, and sees many more possibilities again,” he added.
Rolfes acknowledged that pressing and working hard off the ball had not been Boniface’s strongest attributes when he was scoring regularly. However, he believes the striker still has the quality to make an impact if he improves his fitness.
“We want to get his fitness level as high as possible so that he can showcase his qualities, which he undoubtedly possesses, even better,” Rolfes said.
Boniface’s situation became more difficult after Leverkusen coach Carles Martínez selected Jonas Hofmann for the Europa League squad instead of the Nigerian following Martin Terrier’s injury.
Hofmann rewarded that decision by scoring both goals in Leverkusen’s 2-0 victory over OFI Crete on Thursday evening, while Boniface remained at the club’s training ground.
With the January window approaching, a move could give Boniface the opportunity to secure consistent minutes and rebuild his momentum. Leverkusen, however, will have to decide whether to sanction his departure or continue backing him to fight for his place.
