Fenerbahce have turned their focus to another Nigerian forward as they look to bounce back from a painful season that saw city rivals Galatasaray dominate Turkish football — powered by a player they could have had, Soccernet.ng reports.
Having narrowly missed out on signing Victor Osimhen last summer, Fenerbahce were left to watch in frustration as the Nigerian striker inspired Galatasaray to their 25th Turkish Super Lig title, earning the club a coveted fifth star on their kit.
Osimhen was pivotal, scoring an astonishing 37 goals and providing eight assists in 41 matches across all competitions, helping Galatasaray secure a domestic double.
Fenerbahce were reportedly offered the chance to sign Osimhen on loan from Napoli before Galatasaray made their bold move.
The Yellow-Navy Blue ultimately passed, partly due to concerns over the striker’s hefty wages. That decision has since haunted the club, with Osimhen now unwilling to consider a move to Fenerbahce under any circumstances.
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Fenerbahce turn to Nigerian striker Victor Boniface
Now, determined to match Galatasaray’s firepower next season, Fenerbahce have set their sights on Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface — another elite Nigerian star.
The 24-year-old is currently in Moscow with the Super Eagles ahead of Nigeria’s friendly against Russia, where he’s expected to earn his 13th international cap.
Boniface, who joined Leverkusen from Union Saint-Gilloise in 2023, has grown into one of the Bundesliga’s most talked-about strikers.
Standing at 1.90 metres, he combines physical presence with excellent dribbling and finishing. However, he is still looking for his first goal in Nigerian colours despite his impressive club form.
According to Fussball Transfers as per Sporx, Leverkusen are demanding €40 million for Boniface — a fee that would make him the most expensive signing in Turkish football history.
Fenerbahce’s new football director, Devin Özek, who previously worked at Leverkusen, could be a key figure in negotiating the deal.
Boniface’s contract with Leverkusen runs until 2028, and Fenerbahce president Ali Koç is reportedly prepared to make financial sacrifices to get the deal over the line.
The striker registered 11 goals and 2 assists in 27 appearances last season and came close to joining Saudi side Al-Nassr in January after they had a €50 million bid accepted. The move fell through, and Al-Nassr went on to sign Colombian forward Jhon Duran instead.
A product of Nigeria’s grassroots football system, Boniface developed his game in a military barracks. He is known for his strong ball-carrying ability, intelligent layoffs, and long-range passes.
With Fenerbahce desperate to end Galatasaray’s dominance and establish a new era, Boniface could be the spark they need — if they can convince Leverkusen to sell.