Victor Boniface’s move to AC Milan has fallen through after the Italian club pulled out of the deal due to issues raised during his medical, according to reports in Italy.
The Bayer Leverkusen striker had travelled to Milan in midweek for medical tests ahead of a proposed loan deal. However, complications discovered during the examinations forced the club to cancel the move.
If the transfer had gone through, Boniface was expected to wear the number 22 shirt at Milan, once worn by Brazilian legend Kaka. But Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri confirmed that Milan have decided not to proceed.
This is the second time in seven months that a move away from Leverkusen has collapsed for the 24-year-old Super Eagles forward. In January, he was close to joining Saudi side Al Nassr in a deal worth about €70 million before the club chose instead to sign Colombian striker Jhon Duran.
Milan had been keen to strengthen their attack, with Boniface seen as a good partner for Rafael Leão and a complement to fellow Nigerian Samuel Chukwueze, who joined from Villarreal in 2023. Leão had even spoken positively about the prospect of Boniface joining.
With the transfer cancelled, Boniface will now return to Germany. He remains under contract with Bayer Leverkusen until 2028 and is set to rejoin Erik ten Hag’s squad. The Dutch coach suffered a tough start to life in the Bundesliga, as Leverkusen lost 2-1 at home to Hoffenheim last weekend.
Nigeria’s Nathan Tella featured for Leverkusen in that match, while Kevin Akpoguma came on as a substitute for Hoffenheim.
Although the collapse of another high-profile transfer is a disappointment for Boniface, his presence gives Leverkusen valuable depth as they aim to bounce back from their poor start under Ten Hag.
Leverkusen’s next match is away to Werder Bremen on Saturday, 30 August.