Victor Boniface’s much-anticipated switch to AC Milan has collapsed after the club pulled out of the deal due to concerns raised during his medical examinations, Footynaija.com reports.
The Bayer Leverkusen forward had travelled to Italy on Thursday for routine tests ahead of a proposed loan transfer valued at €5 million, with an option to buy for €24 million (for a combined ₦51.6 billion deal).
However, Milan withdrew from the move after complications were flagged. Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri confirmed the decision, describing it as final and confirmed.
Boniface, who won the Bundesliga and German Cup with Leverkusen last season, had been in line to wear Milan’s No. 22 shirt — famously donned by Brazilian legend Kaka. His arrival was expected to bolster Milan’s attack alongside Rafael Leão and Nigerian compatriot Samuel Chukwueze. Leão had even welcomed the idea of the striker joining him at San Siro.
This setback is the second time in this year that Boniface has seen a transfer collapse. In January, the Super Eagles striker was on the verge of joining Al Nassr in a deal worth around €70 million before the Saudi club turned instead to Colombian forward Jhon Duran.
The failed Milan deal leaves the 24-year-old under contract at Leverkusen until 2028. He will now rejoin Erik ten Hag’s side, who opened their Bundesliga campaign with a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Hoffenheim. Nigeria internationals Nathan Tella and Kevin Akpoguma both featured in that game.
While Milan turn their attention to alternative striking options, including Sporting Lisbon’s Conrad Harder and Manchester United’s Rasmus Højlund, Boniface will focus on helping Leverkusen recover from their slow start.