Victor Boniface's Transfer to AC Milan Collapses Over Knee Injury Concerns

Victor Boniface's transfer to AC Milan collapses 

Victor Boniface's transfer saga and the reasons behind AC Milan's decision to scrap plans to sign the Nigerian striker.

Victor Boniface's potential transfer to AC Milan has hit a roadblock due to concerns over his injury history. Despite Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan reaching a verbal agreement for a loan deal with a €30 million buy option, the Italian club's medical team raised red flags after extensive tests. Boniface had undergone medical examinations at Milan's Centro Ambrosiano and the Galeazzi Orthopaedic Institute, where specialists flagged reduced strength and stability in his right knee, previously operated on twice following ACL injuries.

The 24-year-old Nigerian striker has returned to Bayer Leverkusen after AC Milan's medical staff deemed the risk too high, advising against the deal. This decision has forced Milan to explore other attacking options, with Manchester United's Rasmus Hojlund and Sporting CP's Conrad Harder emerging as potential targets.

Transfer Details:

• Loan Fee: €5 million
• Buy Option: €30 million (non-mandatory)
• Contract Duration: Until June 2030 (if the deal had been finalized)

Boniface's return to Leverkusen means a boost in attacking depth ahead of their Bundesliga season. Meanwhile, AC Milan will need to regroup and find alternative solutions to strengthen their attack after a disappointing start to the season.

AC Milan has decided to scrap plans to sign the 24-year-old striker due to concerns over abnormalities in his right knee, revealed during medical tests. The Italian club had been interested in the player, but the knee issues have raised significant doubts among the team's management. This development puts the potential transfer in jeopardy, with Milan likely exploring alternative options.

Although Milan seems to have ruled out signing the striker, there's a slim chance the deal could be revisited if the team fails to find another suitable candidate. However, according to reports, Milan is unlikely to face a situation where they have no other choice, suggesting the striker's chances of joining the team are slim.

The news comes as Milan continues to navigate the transfer market, seeking to strengthen their squad. With the striker's medical issues casting a shadow over the potential transfer, Milan's focus might shift to other targets. The team's transfer activities are being closely watched, and any further developments will likely have a significant impact on their upcoming season.

Victor Boniface's career has been marked by significant injuries, including tearing his cruciate ligaments in 2019 and 2020, which kept him sidelined for extended periods. In 2024, he suffered an adductor injury that further limited his playing time. These setbacks have impacted his performance, evident in the 2024/2025 season where he only started four of 16 Bundesliga matches for Bayer Leverkusen.

Boniface's current form hasn't earned him a regular spot in the team, with Patrik Schick being the preferred goalscorer. His contract with Leverkusen runs until 2028, but his limited playing time might affect his future prospects. Despite these challenges, Boniface has shown promise, scoring 11 goals in 27 games across all competitions this season.

Career Highlights and Stats

Some notable highlights of Boniface's career include:

Bundesliga Champion: 2023/2024 season with Bayer Leverkusen

UEFA Europa League Top Scorer: 2022/2023 season with 6 goals

Goals and Assists: 8 goals in the 2024/2025 Bundesliga season, with a total of 21 goals and 10 assists in his debut season

Market Value: Estimated at €45 million, with a transfer fee of €21.70 million when he joined Leverkusen from Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in 2023.

🚨⚠️ After medical tests at AC Milan, Victor Boniface returns to Germany as there’s still no green light to his move.

After 48 hours in Milano, Boniface will be back in Leverkusen today waiting for AC Milan imminent decision on his medical tests/checks made over the weekend. pic.twitter.com/84YoXNPrSa

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 24, 2025

Boniface's talent and impact on the pitch are undeniable, but his injury-prone nature has raised concerns about his long-term prospects. As Leverkusen looks to the future, Boniface's role in the team remains uncertain.

Victor Boniface's potential transfer to Al Nassr fell apart in January despite advanced negotiations. The Saudi Pro League club decided to pursue Aston Villa's Jhon Duran instead, signing him for €77 million, including add-ons. This deal came after Bayer Leverkusen had reportedly agreed to a €60 million fee for Boniface, with the player set to earn around €15 million net per season.

Boniface revealed that he considered the move to Al Nassr due to his injury history and the promise of financial security. However, the deal ultimately collapsed because Al Nassr lost patience with the negotiations or found Duran more appealing. Boniface's agent and family initially pushed for the move, but it didn't materialize.

The failed transfer might not significantly impact Boniface's career prospects. By staying in Europe with Bayer Leverkusen, he's positioning himself for continued success and potential high-profile moves to top European leagues like the Premier League, La Liga, or Serie A. Leverkusen is also working on extending his contract, ensuring they retain their key player.

Boniface remains focused on his performances with Bayer Leverkusen, having scored eight goals and provided one assist in 15 appearances across all competitions this season. His decision to stay in Europe might prove beneficial for his career, allowing him to develop further and compete at the highest level.