Victor Boniface seeks January 2027 move to revive Leverkusen career

Victor Boniface wants to leave Bayer Leverkusen in January 2027 in an effort to revive his career after a difficult period affected by injuries, fitness issues and a lack of regular first-team football.

Sky Germany reports that the Nigeria striker’s representatives have told Leverkusen he wants to depart when the winter transfer window opens. A loan move is viewed as the most likely solution, with securing consistent playing time understood to be Boniface’s main objective.

The 25-year-old has been unable to establish himself at the BayArena following a frustrating loan spell at Werder Bremen and ongoing knee problems that have interrupted his progress.

His position has become more uncertain since the appointment of head coach Carles Martinez, who did not include Boniface in Leverkusen’s squad for the UEFA Europa League league phase.

The striker’s prospects of returning to the European squad suffered another blow in late October, when winger Martin Terrier sustained a serious injury. Leverkusen chose midfielder Jonas Hofmann as Terrier’s replacement rather than registering Boniface.

That decision highlighted Boniface’s current standing within the squad and the difficulty he faces in convincing the club’s coaching staff that he should be restored to the team’s plans.

Martinez and managing director Simon Rolfes have both said Boniface must rebuild the physical condition and intensity needed to compete for a regular starting place.

He is also behind Patrik Schick in the competition to lead the line. Unless Boniface can show he is ready to deliver consistently, his opportunities are likely to remain limited.

There are no advanced discussions with prospective clubs at present, despite Boniface’s reported desire to move on. Leverkusen are prepared to assess their options, with both a loan transfer and a permanent deal understood to be possible.

The January window could therefore provide Boniface with an opportunity to seek a fresh start, while allowing Leverkusen to decide whether a temporary departure or a permanent transfer best suits the striker’s situation.