Transfer Negotiations Ongoing for Bayer Leverkusen's Victor Boniface

Bayer Leverkusen's Victor Boniface was absent from training as the club negotiates his potential transfer to Al Nassr, according to manager Xabi Alonso.

Following injuries to Jeanu Belocian and Martin Terrier, Rennes' management acknowledged the need to make signings in the transfer window. With just three days remaining, a decision appears imminent. “After Jeanu (Belocian) and Martin (Terrier) injuries we already said that we need to be active in the transfer window. Three days still remain and we are so close (to a decision),” said a Rennes representative.

The injuries to Belocian and Terrier have dealt a significant blow to Rennes. Defender Belocian suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury at the start of the year, while winger Terrier sustained an Achilles tendon rupture last week. Despite these setbacks, the team remains optimistic about their prospects. “I am and I will be happy with the squad (regardless). Until now, all players feel that they are ready and they are an important part of the team,” said the representative.

Rennes' opponents, Bayer Leverkusen, are currently eighth in the Champions League standings with 13 points. They have secured at least a knockout stage playoff spot, while Rennes have been eliminated with only four points from seven games. The top eight teams in the first phase qualify automatically for the last 16, while those finishing ninth to 24th enter the playoffs on February 11th-12th and 18th-19th. The playoff draw is scheduled to take place on Friday.

Bayer Leverkusen's Victor Boniface was absent from training on Tuesday, amidst reports linking the 24-year-old striker to a potential move to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. Manager Xabi Alonso confirmed that negotiations for Boniface's transfer are ongoing. “The situation with (Boniface) does exist. Negotiations are ongoing with the club, so we have to wait. Our preparation for the match remains the same,” Alonso told reporters.

🟡🔵🇸🇦 Understand Victor Boniface has already opened doors to Al Nassr move, right after Bayer Leverkusen decided to negotiate with the Saudi club.

Talks now ongoing on financial package for both player and club sides, with Saudi’s delegation in Germany since Monday as revealed. pic.twitter.com/Exvj5Uhqhb

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 28, 2025

Boniface had recently returned from injury, making an appearance on the bench during Leverkusen's 2-2 draw with RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga on Saturday. Prior to his injury in November, he had been in impressive form, scoring eight goals in 15 games across all competitions. Last season, Boniface played a crucial role in securing Leverkusen's first Bundesliga title, netting 14 goals in 23 league appearances to finish as the team's top scorer.

Alonso acknowledged that the uncertainty surrounding Boniface's future has affected the team's preparations for their upcoming Champions League clash against Sparta Prague on Wednesday. “We prepared (for the game) without Boni, of course. We still have to wait a little longer to see (how the situation unfolds),” the Spanish coach added, emphasizing the need for patience as the negotiations continue.