Rumour Mills: Victor Boniface outlines key condition for potential Premier League move

By Oluwadamilola Olaleye

Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has stated that any move to the English Premier League (EPL) would depend heavily on the style of football played by the prospective club, amid growing interest from Premier League sides and ongoing speculation over his future.

Boniface, who played a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga-winning campaign and their run to the 2024 UEFA Europa League final, is reportedly on the radar of West Ham United and Newcastle United.

AC Milan, now under the management of Max Allegri, also view the Nigerian forward as a prime candidate to lead their attacking line next season.

Despite the transfer interest, Boniface is currently expected to remain at Leverkusen under incoming head coach Erik ten Hag. The club remains firm on keeping the Super Eagles star, unless a “too good to reject” offer arrives before the window closes.

Speaking on The Culture League podcast on YouTube, the 23-year-old clarified his stance on a potential EPL switch, offering insight into his decision-making process.

“I don’t really like the Premier League. It’s not like if I have the opportunity to go, I won’t take it,” Boniface said. “But if I’m going to make that move, it has to be to a certain type of team.”

He emphasised that tactical fit and the pressure surrounding the club are more important to him than just financial gain or prestige.

“Before I agree to a transfer or join a club, I always look at the type of football they play. Will it suit me? Is it a team with too much pressure? Because some players can’t perform well under pressure,” he explained.

Boniface recounted turning down previous Premier League offers during his breakout season in Belgium, citing concerns over playing style and team dynamics.

“If you put me in a possession-based side, I’ll give you everything,” he added.

“I can go to a club and be the standout player, but we might lose a game and everyone points fingers at me. From the grassroots level, that’s how I’ve always played. If I’m on the pitch, I bring everyone along with me.”

With the post-Xabi Alonso era beginning at Leverkusen, Boniface is expected to remain central to the club’s ambitions.

However, his comments suggest that while a Premier League move isn’t off the table, it would take more than a lucrative offer—it would require the right footballing philosophy.