Manchester United have reportedly narrowed their search for a new striker to two leading candidates: Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres. With the Red Devils struggling in front of goal, having scored only 13 times in 12 Premier League matches this season, new manager Ruben Amorim has prioritized strengthening the attack.
Amorim, who joined United after a successful stint at Sporting, is known for preferring players who fit seamlessly into his tactical system. This has made Gyökeres, who thrived under Amorim at Sporting, a key target for the club. However, Boniface’s consistent performances in the Bundesliga also make him an attractive option as United looks for a long-term solution.
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Since joining Sporting in the summer of 2023, Gyökeres has been outstanding. The Swedish forward has netted 67 goals and registered 19 assists in 70 games, averaging nearly a goal per match. His 29 goals in Liga Portugal earned him the league’s Golden Boot, while his nine goals in the UEFA Nations League further highlighted his ability to find the net.
Gyökeres’ success under Amorim’s high-pressing, possession-based style suggests he could thrive at United, with the manager already familiar with how to bring out the best in the forward. However, questions remain about his ability to adapt to the physicality and speed of the Premier League, where his style of play might face tougher challenges.
On the other hand, Boniface’s rise at Bayer Leverkusen has been equally impressive. The Nigerian striker, who joined the club in 2023, has scored 29 goals and provided 11 assists in 49 appearances. His contributions have helped Leverkusen secure key trophies, including the Bundesliga and the German Cup. Boniface’s strength, work rate, and versatility are qualities well-suited to the Premier League, but his current injury—a muscle issue sustained during international duty with Nigeria—has sidelined him until January 2025.
Despite his injury, Boniface’s performances in the Bundesliga have earned him widespread recognition. However, his lackluster showings with Nigeria, where he has yet to score in 11 appearances, raise concerns about his consistency at the international level.
Both players are expected to command significant transfer fees. Gyökeres, who joined Sporting for €20m in 2023, is now valued at around €70m, while Boniface’s price tag could exceed €75m, given his success in Germany. United’s recent financial outlay might prevent them from making a move in January, with the club possibly looking to secure a deal for the summer transfer window instead.
Alongside Boniface and Gyökeres, United are also monitoring Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush and Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani. Despite Amorim’s close ties to Sporting, he has publicly stated that he does not intend to raid his former club in January, leaving Boniface as a more viable option. Boniface’s experience in one of Europe’s top leagues and his proven adaptability to top-flight football may make him a safer bet for the long term.
As Manchester United prepares for the second half of the season, the decision between Gyökeres and Boniface could significantly influence the club’s fortunes. Both strikers bring distinct qualities, but United’s immediate need for a reliable goalscorer is undeniable. The club must now make a calculated decision to address their attacking woes and bring the goals back to Old Trafford.
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