BERLIN, Sept. 1 (Xinhua) -- Werder Bremen has strengthened its attack with the arrival of Nigerian striker Victor Boniface from Bayer Leverkusen, the Bundesliga club confirmed shortly before the transfer deadline on Monday.

The 24-year-old moves to the Weser Stadium on a one-year loan deal without a purchase option, while Leverkusen will continue to cover part of his salary.

Boniface enjoyed a remarkable first year in Germany, firing 14 goals in 23 league appearances during Leverkusen's 2023-24 title-winning campaign. He also contributed to the club's German Cup success and the Supercup triumph last summer. However, injuries and the rise of Patrik Schick and Christian Kofane limited his playing time, leading to just 16 starts across all competitions last season.

"With Patrik, Christian and Victor we simply had three players competing for one role," explained Bayer sporting director Simon Rolfes. "In this situation, it was best for everyone to find a solution. Hopefully, Victor can rediscover his rhythm and show his quality in Bremen."

For Werder, the signing comes at a crucial moment. After the departure of top scorer Marvin Ducksch to Birmingham City earlier in the summer, head coach Horst Steffen had been urging for reinforcements up front. Other attacking options such as Keke Topp and Justin Njinmah have yet to fully convince, leaving a clear need for a proven finisher.

Boniface's physical presence, pace, and instinct in front of goal make him a natural focal point. "Victor is powerful, clinical and also very capable of linking play," Steffen said. "He proved his value in Leverkusen's championship season and can become a key figure for us."

The striker's fitness was under scrutiny earlier this summer after a failed move to AC Milan due to medical concerns, but Werder's checks have given the green light. The 13-cap Nigeria international last played competitively in April but is expected to regain match sharpness quickly.

Bremen are still looking for their first league win of the campaign, and Boniface could make his debut for his new club against Borussia Monchengladbach after this weekend's international break. ■