Manchester United Face Setback in Pursuit of 23-Year-Old Bundesliga Forward, Reports Suggest

Manchester United have reportedly encountered a hurdle in their bid to sign Victor Boniface in January. The 23-year-old forward, currently playing for Bayer Leverkusen, is focused on his career at the German club and intends to continue working under coach Xabi Alonso.

United have been struggling with their attacking form this season, having scored just 13 goals in 12 Premier League matches, with only three teams recording fewer goals. Their primary strikers, Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, have each found the net just once in the league. As a result, the club has been linked with several potential forward signings.

According to Fichajes.net (via The Hard Tackle), Manchester United had identified Boniface as a target, with a potential move in January. However, the striker is expected to turn down their advances. He is committed to his role at Bayer Leverkusen and is determined to remain with the team for the time being.

Boniface, who joined Leverkusen from Union Saint-Gilloise last summer, had an impressive season, scoring 21 goals and providing 10 assists in 34 appearances across all competitions. His contributions helped the club secure both the Bundesliga title and the DFB-Pokal, remaining unbeaten throughout the campaign. This season, he has already netted eight goals and provided one assist in 15 games.

Chelsea are also reportedly interested in Boniface, and scouts have been dispatched to monitor his performances. While a January transfer is off the table, Boniface could potentially consider a summer move, depending on the future of Xabi Alonso at Leverkusen. The forward’s contract runs until 2028, and according to Transfermarkt, his current market value stands at €45 million.