The next Ronaldo? Arsenal target could fix Man Utd's striker woes

Tom Weber

• Updated: 4 Jan 2024 15:33 GMT
• 3 min read

Victor Boniface would be an ideal solution to Manchester United's offensive issues.

The Bayer Leverkusen star was in spectacular form in his first half-season in the Bundesliga as Xabi Alonso's side stormed to the top of the standings. Boniface notched a whopping 16 goals and eight assists in 23 games in all competitions and quickly established himself as one of German football's most exciting players.

The Nigerian has the body and drive to score of a prolific target man but the skills and creativity of a tricky winger. This unique combination has dazzled Bundesliga fans and is quickly making him a sought-after commodity despite the fact that he has already suffered two heartbreaking ACL injuries at just 22 years of age.

Arsenal are now reportedly interested in acquiring his services. As FootballTransfers illustrated on Wednesday, this is bad news for Chelsea as Boniface would be an ideal alternative to his compatriot Victor Osimhen for the Blues. However, there is also another club that should take a keen interest in the forward.

Man Utd's next Ronaldo

Man Utd are in desperate need of bolstering their frontline as Rasmus Hojlund has only scored once in the Premier League thus far. It must be said, though, that a January move for Boniface is impossible for several reasons, but he could - and should - be a consideration for the summer.

According to data experts SciSports, the Nigerian could be something of a new Cristiano Ronaldo for the Red Devils. Indeed, SciSports' algorithm sees a more than 90 per cent likeness between the Leverkusen man and the United legend.

It is certainly true that there can be a striking similarity in the way Boniface plays to how Ronaldo performed in his younger years. The 22-year-old is very much a winger stuck in a striker's body and brings a youthful exuberance and playfulness to the table.

The young striker also still has significant room to improve. So much so in fact that SciSports believe that he has more potential than all but one of Man Utd's current players, including Rasmus Hojlund. Even if Boniface can't reach the level of Ronaldo - few players can - he would bring plenty of joy to Red Devils fans.