Nigeria’s golden boy set to join Ronaldo at Al Nassr as Talisca seals move to Mourinho’s Fenerbahce

Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr are reportedly in talks to sign Nigerian forward Victor Boniface, Soccernet.football understands.

Al Nassr are preparing to part ways with Brazilian playmaker Anderson Talisca, who is on the verge of completing a move to Turkish giants Fenerbahce.

According to transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, Talisca is set to arrive in Istanbul to finalize a 1.5-year contract with José Mourinho’s side as the Portuguese manager looks to bolster his squad for the remainder of the season.

Understand Al Nassr have started official talks for Victor Boniface as new striker!

Negotiations on with Bayer Leverkusen for the Nigerian striker to replace Talisca.

The other candidate is Jhon Durán… but Aston Villa still insist on keeping him at the club. pic.twitter.com/Nz0itrBtv2

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 27, 2025

With Talisca’s exit imminent, Al Nassr have turned their attention to Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface, currently a standout performer for German champions Bayer Leverkusen.

While recent reports suggest that Boniface is committed to Bayer Leverkusen—having recently signed a one-year contract extension—the Saudi Pro League outfit could test the Bundesliga side’s resolve with a bid exceeding €50 million.

Boniface may also be tempted by the prospect of becoming the first Nigerian footballer to play alongside Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who remains Al Nassr’s marquee player.

Boniface, one of Nigeria’s brightest rising stars, joined Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2023. In his debut campaign, the 22-year-old played a pivotal role in leading the club to their historic Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double.

His exceptional performances earned him the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season award, making him the first Nigerian to claim the honor. Boniface also secured a place in the Bundesliga Team of the Season, further cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.

Al Nassr’s interest in Boniface underlines their ambition to continue attracting top talent to the Saudi Pro League, but whether they can lure the prolific striker away from Europe remains to be seen.