Victor Boniface’s proposed transfer to AC Milan has collapsed after the Italian club raised concerns about the striker’s knee.
The 24-year-old Nigerian had already agreed personal terms with the seven-time UEFA Champions League winners, and both clubs had settled on a loan deal with an option to buy. But Milan’s medical team flagged an issue in his right knee, forcing the club to abandon the move.
It is the second time in 2025 that Boniface has seen a transfer fall through. Earlier in the year, he passed a medical at Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr, but the Saudi club decided to sign Colombian striker Jhon Duran from Aston Villa instead.
Boniface has now returned to Bayer Leverkusen, where Sporting Director Simon Rolfes confirmed that he will undergo physical therapy to regain full fitness.
“If Boniface comes back to Leverkusen, the AC Milan deal is over. That’s no big secret,” Rolfes told BILD. “His situation has improved compared to before, and he has behaved sensibly. But he must focus on recovery to get back to 100 percent.”
The forward, who was named Bundesliga Rookie of the Season in 2024, will now have to consider fresh options for his future once fit. Reports in Germany suggest new Leverkusen coach Erik ten Hag does not see him as a key part of his plans, meaning a move away from Die Werkself could still happen.
