Victor Boniface Returns To Bayer Leverkusen As AC Milan Move Stalls Over Medical Concerns.
Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has returned to Germany after his proposed transfer to AC Milan hit a significant obstacle. The 24-year-old forward underwent extensive medical examinations in Milan over the past 48 hours, but the Serie A club has yet to give the green light for the move, casting doubt on the deal’s completion.
Boniface arrived in Milan on Friday to finalise a season-long loan from Bayer Leverkusen, which included a €5 million loan fee and an option to buy for approximately €24 million. The Nigerian international, who played a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga triumph in the 2023/24 season, was expected to bolster Milan’s attacking options. However, concerns over his medical history have prompted the Rossoneri to conduct thorough assessments, including tests at La Madonnina clinic, the Italian Olympic Committee facilities, and Galeazzi Hospital.
Reports indicate that Milan’s medical team identified an issue with Boniface’s right knee, a concern heightened by his history of injuries. The striker has endured two anterior cruciate ligament surgeries earlier in his career and faced recurring groin issues during his time in Germany. Despite completing three rounds of tests, including one overseen by a trusted orthopaedic surgeon recalled from holiday, the results have not provided Milan with sufficient reassurance to proceed. A fourth round of examinations was scheduled, but with no final approval, Boniface is now en route back to Leverkusen.
The collapse of the transfer has sparked disappointment among fans, particularly as Milan had prepared the iconic No. 22 shirt—previously worn by Brazilian legend Kaka—for Boniface’s anticipated unveiling. The club’s cautious approach reflects their meticulous reputation in assessing players’ fitness, a stance that previously led to the cancellation of a deal for Antonee Robinson four years ago due to a detected heart issue.
Bayer Leverkusen, now under the management of Erik ten Hag, had agreed to the loan deal as Boniface had slipped to third-choice striker behind Patrik Schick and Christian Kofane. Despite his injury setbacks, Boniface’s record of 32 goals in 61 appearances across all competitions over two seasons with Leverkusen underscores his potential. His limited playing time in the 2024/25 campaign, where he started just 12 Bundesliga matches and scored eight goals, reportedly fuelled his desire for a move to secure regular football ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Milan’s hesitation has opened the door for other clubs, with reports suggesting Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr could rekindle their interest after previously pulling out of a €50 million deal in January. For now, Boniface’s immediate future lies with Leverkusen, where he will look to regain his place in the squad.
AC Milan, meanwhile, are exploring alternative targets, with names like Rasmus Højlund, Nicolas Jackson, and Dušan Vlahović linked as the transfer window nears its close. The Rossoneri face a crucial decision as they aim to strengthen their squad for the ongoing Serie A campaign, having kicked off their season with a 2-0 Coppa Italia win over Bari.
