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Manchester United’s struggled to create any openings against Arsenal on Wednesday, another reminder that Ruben Amorim needs attacking additions up front.
Rasmus Hojlund struggled to hold up play against the Gunners while both Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee hardly had an impact after coming on in the second half.
Viktor Gyokeres is Amorim’s first choice but plenty of others are also on the club’s radar with Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface recently linked with a move to Old Trafford in the summer.
The Nigerian had netted 21 times in the previous double-winning campaign while he has found the back of the net eight goals this season. His displays have attracted interest from all across Europe including that of the Red Devils.
Poor Injury record
But Leverkusen are desperate to keep hold of the 23-year-old with both parties locked in talks over a contract extension. And that is not the only reason why the 20-time English league champions might miss out.
As per Fussball News, the Nigeria international is “not a hot topic” along the corridors of power at United owing to his poor injury record which is considered a “major flaw”.
“However, according to exclusive fussball.news information , Boniface is not at the top of the radar of the traditional English club.
“Boniface has already suffered two cruciate ligament tears in his career. Last season he was out for months due to a serious adductor injury, this time he returned from the international trip with a thigh injury.”
He has missed 20 games in the last one-and-half season, and given the club’s difficulties with injury-prone stars like Luke Shaw and formerly, Anthony Martial, the club should steer clear of a potential deal.
Boniface set to stay
This will be music to Leverkusen’s ears with Boniface set to earn a one-year extension, which will also see him increase his wages which will please the striker.
“Regardless, Bayer wants to continue working with Boniface in the long term . The contract, which runs until 2028, is to be extended by another year.
“The 23-year-old currently earns around three million euros. Leverkusen would increase this amount significantly and make him one of the top earners. And the German champions’ plan is likely to be well received.”
There are plenty of other strikers still available and United should ideally keep a list of backups ready in case of complications with a potential deal for Gyokeres.
Feature image Dean Mouhtaropoulos via Getty Images
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