Levi Rothermund
Nigerian forward Victor Boniface will not be joining AC Milan—at least not for now. The highly anticipated move from Bundesliga outfit Bayer Leverkusen to the Rossoneri has collapsed, according to multiple media reports. Despite previously passing through Milan for medical checks and having a loan agreement in place between the clubs, the deal has been shelved.
What went wrong? According to German outlet Kicker, medical tests revealed issues in Boniface’s right knee that raised serious concerns for Milan’s decision-makers. The club has since opted to back out of the signing, despite initially green-lighting the move.
This development is particularly disappointing given Boniface’s earlier momentum. But the numbers tell a cautionary tale. The 24-year-old has a troubling injury history, having suffered two cruciate ligament tears in 2019 and 2020, and most recently missing time in early 2024 with an adductor injury. These fitness setbacks have clearly raised red flags.
Boniface’s form hasn’t helped his case either. In the 2025 Bundesliga season, he started just 4 of 16 matches, struggling to make an impact behind Leverkusen’s prolific frontman Patrik Schick. With his contract running until 2028, the Nigerian now finds himself in limbo—a high-potential talent with limited room to shine in Xabi Alonso’s setup.
This isn’t the first transfer that fell through for Boniface. Earlier this year, he had reportedly agreed terms with Saudi Pro League giants Al Nassr, only for that deal to break down at the final stages as well. Since then, his performances have failed to match the levels of Leverkusen’s historic double-winning campaign and a strong first half of last season.
Could Milan return for him if no other striker fits their needs before deadline day? Technically yes, but as it stands, the club appears set to explore alternative options, leaving Boniface to regroup in Germany—again.
For bettors and fans alike, this development is a critical reminder of how medicals and injury records can derail even the most promising transfer stories. Keep an eye on Milan’s next move and whether Boniface can revive his standing before January.