According to Sport Bild, the former Manchester United boss, alongside sporting director Simon Rolfes, has drawn up a new striker hierarchy — and Boniface, once a key figure under Xabi Alonso, has been placed behind Schick.

Despite Boniface’s role in Leverkusen’s 2023-24 Bundesliga title-winning campaign, he is now reportedly free to leave, with Newcastle United among the clubs interested. A transfer fee in the region of €50 million is being discussed.

Boniface endured a stop-start season due to injuries and disciplinary concerns, but still scored 11 goals, helping Leverkusen finish second behind Bayern Munich.

Under Alonso, the 24-year-old Nigerian was considered indispensable when fit. But Ten Hag’s arrival appears to have reset the striker pecking order, with Schick now seen as the go-to forward after netting 21 Bundesliga goals last season.

Boniface, currently in Moscow with Nigeria’s Super Eagles for a friendly against Russia, is likely to lead the line in attack. Yet his international form is yet to match his club exploits — he remains goalless in 12 appearances for Nigeria, though he is widely seen as one of the nation’s most technically gifted strikers.

If Boniface departs, 18-year-old Christian Kofane from Albacete is expected to arrive as a €5m replacement.