New development emerges in Everton hunt to sign Victor Boniface

Everton striker target Victor Boniface is on the radar of Bundesliga giants Bayer Leverkusen, with the Union SG man reportedly keen on the move, according to Sacha Tavolieri.

Everton had enquired about Boniface last week (15 July) who was reportedly open to a move to Merseyside [Sacha Tavolieri] but had not placed an offer for the Nigerian following his 17-goal haul in all competitions last campaign.

Finishing as the Europa League’s top scorer last season, the 22-year-old now attracts attention from across Europe after helping his side to a third-place finish in the Belgian Pro League.

Imposing option

Standing at six-foot-two-inches, Boniface is an imposing presence in any attacking lineup.

Everton have been in dire need of attacking depth and have been liked with Leeds United’s Willy Gnonto [Daily Record], but an out-and-out centre forward will likely be on Sean Dyche’s shopping list too.

With 17 goals for Union SG in Belgium, Boniface has proved his ability in front of goal. His European credentials are also very impressive, scoring six Europa League goals in 10 fixtures.

However, Boniface and Union SC were knocked out of the Europa League quarter-finals by the team who have joined the race to claim the striker: Bayer Leverkusen.

If the German club’s intent on getting the forward is strong, Everton may find it difficult to compete. While the Premier League pull is always strong, the Toffees may not be in a position to offer Boniface big wages and Leverkusen would offer him a route back to the Europa League after their sixth-place finish in the league.

Whoever gets their man will be gaining an extremely prolific and dynamic player. With 0.70 goals per 90 (95th percentile) and 0.23 assists per 90 (90th percentile), Boniface is very skilled at influencing the scoreline, whether directly or by helping his teammates.

He also loves to carry the ball as seen through his 2.68 progressive carries per 90 (87th percentile) [FBRef]. This means, using his strength and pace, Boniface can force his team up the pitch and create chances. His close control and strong technical ability make it very tough for the opposition to dispossess him, while his thunderous shot can challenge any goalkeeper.

If he is able to make the step up from the Belgian league to the Premier League, then the Nigerian could become a really exciting option for Dyche.

In other Everton news, talkSPORT has quietly removed a Rory Jennings blast against Dele Alli after his tell-all interview with Gary Neville.