Boniface set for pay rise as Leverkusen extend striker’s contract

Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen are poised to reward Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface with an upgraded contract extending his stay at the club until 2029, amid reported interest from Manchester United.

According to Sky Germany, Leverkusen is in advanced talks with the 23-year-old to extend his current deal, which runs until 2028.

The extension would include a substantial pay rise, positioning Boniface among the club’s highest earners. Currently earning €3 million annually, the Nigerian forward has become a standout performer since joining from Union Saint-Gilloise in 2023.

Boniface has been instrumental in Leverkusen’s historic success, tallying 29 goals and 10 assists in 49 matches. His contributions helped the club secure their maiden Bundesliga title and the DFB-Pokal last season.

He also shone in the German Super Cup this season, scoring the opener to secure another trophy for the team.

His remarkable debut season earned him the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season award and drew interest from top European clubs, including Manchester United.

However, Boniface has previously expressed a preference for La Liga over the Premier League, stating that Spain would be his preferred destination if he left Germany.

Despite interest from English clubs, transfer expert Patrick Berger reports that Boniface is happy at the BayArena and envisions his immediate future with Leverkusen.

Although currently sidelined with a thigh injury sustained during international duty, the striker remains a key part of Leverkusen’s plans.

The club, undeterred by his two significant injuries, including an abductor issue last season, is determined to secure his long-term future under head coach Xabi Alonso.

The proposed extension underscores Leverkusen’s commitment to retaining their core players as they aim to build on their groundbreaking success last season, despite a slower start to the current campaign.