Arsenal Offered ‘World-Class’ Striker Instead of Watkins, £50m Gets Deal Done

Arsenal are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface before the January transfer deadline, as the Gunners continue their search for attacking reinforcements following injuries to key players. According to TBR Football, Boniface has been made available for transfer after a potential move to Saudi Arabia fell through. With Arsenal currently experiencing an injury crisis in attack, particularly following Gabriel Jesus’s long-term absence due to an ACL injury, the club may consider a move for the 24-year-old Nigerian international to bolster their squad for the remainder of the season.

Boniface, who joined Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2023 from Union SG, has had a somewhat difficult second season with the Bundesliga club under manager Xabi Alonso. After an impressive start to the campaign, Boniface has spent the last two months sidelined due to injury. Despite his absence, Leverkusen has continued to thrive, enjoying an eight-game winning streak in the Bundesliga that has helped narrow the gap between them and league leaders Bayern Munich.

Before his injury, Boniface made 15 appearances for Leverkusen across all competitions, scoring eight goals and providing one assist, showcasing his potential as a capable and dynamic forward. His performances in the first part of the season earned him praise, with some even labeling him “world-class.” However, with his future now uncertain, the striker has become a subject of interest among several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, who are exploring potential late transfers to strengthen their attacking options.

The 24-year-old’s situation has generated considerable buzz in England, with multiple clubs, including Arsenal, said to be keeping a close eye on his availability. Leverkusen is reportedly willing to let Boniface leave in January, especially given his recent injury struggles and the club’s strong form without him. Although Boniface’s return to full fitness remains a key factor in any potential move, the forward’s availability could be an enticing option for Premier League clubs looking for an immediate impact.

Arsenal, in particular, are in desperate need of reinforcement up front. Following the injury to Gabriel Jesus earlier in the month, the Gunners have been without their primary striker for the remainder of the season. The Brazilian forward’s absence has forced Mikel Arteta to explore various attacking options, and Boniface’s name has emerged as a potential candidate to fill that gap.

However, Arsenal are not the only club reportedly interested in Boniface’s services. Premier League clubs have been informed of his uncertain situation at Leverkusen, with some also considering him as a viable option for the remainder of the season. In addition to Arsenal, Aston Villa’s pursuit of Jhon Duran by Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr has reportedly impacted Boniface’s availability, as his move to Saudi Arabia was blocked in favor of the Colombian forward.

The Gunners are also thought to be in the market for other potential strikers, with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins being another target for the club in the closing days of the window. While Boniface has shown potential, especially in his first season with Leverkusen, Arsenal’s decision to pursue him will likely depend on his fitness and ability to quickly adapt to Premier League demands.

With the January transfer window rapidly closing, Arsenal will need to make decisive moves if they are to successfully sign Boniface or another forward. Mikel Arteta’s side has been affected by several injuries this season, and the loss of Gabriel Jesus for the remainder of the campaign has left a significant void in the team’s attacking setup. As a result, the need for a reliable goal-scorer is crucial for Arsenal’s push to challenge for the Premier League title and secure a strong finish to the season.

Boniface’s stats in the Bundesliga for the 2024/25 season are impressive, with six goals and one assist in 10 league games, showing that he is capable of making an immediate impact in front of goal. If Arsenal do proceed with a bid for the Nigerian forward, they will be hoping he can replicate that form in the Premier League and provide Arteta with a much-needed attacking option.

As the clock ticks down on the January transfer window, Arsenal fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on any potential signings, with Boniface and other targets being linked to the club. Whether or not the Gunners can secure a deal for the Bayer Leverkusen striker will likely come down to negotiations and Boniface’s recovery from his recent injury, but Arsenal’s pursuit of reinforcements will remain a key priority as they look to strengthen their squad for the remainder of the season.