Newcastle United are in ‘advanced talks’ to sign Victor Boniface from Bayer Leverkusen, according to reports in Germany.
Eddie Howe wants to sign a centre-forward this summer with Callum Wilson set to leave Newcastle when his contract expires at the end of the campaign. There is also interest in leading scorer Alexander Isak, though Newcastle do not want to sell.
Boniface is a player Newcastle admire and negotiations have started over a transfer to the Premier League. German outlet BILD have revealed that the Magpies want to sign Boniface, who is rumoured to be unsettled at Leverkusen.
In January, Boniface saw a transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr break down, with the club instead signing Jhon Duran from Aston Villa.
He has started just 12 league games this season due to injuries and the form of Patrik Schick, scoring eight Bundesliga goals.
Last season, the 24-year-old was named Bundesliga Rookie of the Season after scoring 21 goals in all competitions. He was a key contributor as Leverkusen won a German league and cup double without losing a game – the club’s first-ever Bundesliga title.
Boniface ranks in the top 10% of strikers in Europe’s top five leagues for shots, non-penalty xG, progressive carries, successful take-ons and attacking penalty area touches per 90 minutes.
Leverkusen are understood to value the Nigeria international at around €50m (£42.1m).
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