Everton are now set to miss out on another striker as Victor Boniface is heading closer to Bayer Leverkusen. The Toffees were in search of a striker and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise striker Boniface was on Everton’s short list.
The Merseysiders have been wanting to sign a striker this summer and have tried their luck in signing Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish striker has ended up joining Sporting. EFC are also interested in signing El Bilal Toure but Atalanta seem to be winning the race for the Almeria striker.
Everton have also shown interest in Ajax striker Brian Brobbey but the Dutchman doesn’t plan to leave Amsterdam this summer and would instead stay put. The Toffees are also hoping to sign free agent Moussa Dembele but face competition from Villarreal and Saudi Arabian clubs.
Everton target Victor Boniface agrees personal terms with Bayer Leverkusen
Although EFC are on the verge of signing Arnaut Danjuma from Villarreal on a loan deal, Everton need to sign a striker as Danjuma is not a traditional No.9. He can play in the central position but he isn’t a pure striker like Dominic Calvert-Lewin. A few days ago, the Toffees were linked to USG forward Boniface.
Everton had carried out initial enquiries for the Nigerian striker who posted some excellent numbers last season. Boniface scored 22 goals across all competitions and provided 12 assists in 55 games, taking his goal contribution tally to 34. EFC did not make a formal approach but the 22 year old striker remained open to the idea of leaving Union Saint-Gilloise.
Bayer Leverkusen entered the race to sign Boniface and the German side seem to have moved fast in the Nigerian’s pursuit. According to Fabrizio Romano, Leverkusen are in advanced talks to sign Boniface from USG. The negotiations continue but the deal is said to be close. Boniface has already agreed personal terms with Bayer Leverkusen and the whole package is expected to be more than €20 million.
EFC seem to be missing out on another transfer target as Boniface appears to be on his way to Germany. The Toffees need a striker signing quickly and missing out on targets does hamper EFC’s plans. If Neal Maupay also departs, EFC will be void of depth in striker’s area which poses the risk of previous season’s repeat where Everton had no options in the striker’s department.
Which striker should Everton push for after failing to get Victor Boniface?