Bayer Leverkusen has kept pace with Bundesliga leader Bayern Munich by beating Hoffenheim 3-1 with goals from Victor Boniface, Patrik Schick and Jeremie Frimpong.

Victor Boniface returns and starts for Bayer Leverkusen against Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga this evening after his move to Al-Nassr broke down. Despite reaching an agreement with both club and

Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso is delighted to see Victor Boniface back to his best after the striker scored his first goal following his failed Al Nassr move.

Bayer Leverkusen beat Hoffenheim 3-1 on Sunday to move within six points of Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich, with Victor Boniface scoring a goal just days after his move to Saudi Arabia collapsed. The 24-year-old was stood down from training last week as he explored a transfer to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi side Al-Nassr.

The reason the deal has not yet been finalised is that Al Nassr are negotiating with Aston Villa for Colombian striker Jhon Duran. The Athletic reports that if Villa receives a fee of €80m for Duran and a move suits all parties, then a move would be possible.

Victor Boniface said he is delighted to return to the pitch again after spending around two months on the sidelines. Boniface sustained a thigh injury on international duty last November. The 24-year-old scored in his first game for Bayer Leverkusen since recovering from the injury against TSG Hoffenheim on Sunday.

Victor Boniface returns and starts for Bayer Leverkusen against Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga this evening after his move to Al-Nassr broke down. Despite reaching an agreement with both club and player, the Saudi outfit instead opted to sign Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran for a reported €77m.