AC Milan’s move for Victor Boniface has been thrown into doubt after the striker underwent extensive medical tests in Italy, with concerns emerging over his long-term fitness. The 24-year-old Bayer Leverkusen forward, who had been expected to complete a loan move with an option to buy, returned to Germany on Sunday after two days of in-depth checks in Milan.
A deal close to completion
The Rossoneri had agreed a deal structure with Bayer Leverkusen believed to be a €5 million loan fee with a buy option worth around €24–25 million. Boniface, who enjoyed a prolific season in the Bundesliga last year, was identified as Milan’s ideal attacking reinforcement. Expectations were high that the Nigerian striker would be presented as Milan’s new number nine ahead of the Serie A campaign.
However, after undergoing standard medical examinations at “La Madonnina” and further tests at CONI and Hospital Galeazzi, Milan doctors requested additional analysis on Boniface’s right knee.
Old injuries resurface
The concerns are not unfounded. Boniface has suffered two anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries earlier in his career, and Milan wanted absolute certainty that he could withstand the physical demands of Serie A. Over 48 hours, orthopaedic specialists carried out detailed evaluations, sparking fears that the transfer might not be risk-free.
While no official statement has been made, reports suggest that Milan’s hierarchy are wary of committing significant resources to a player whose medical profile raises red flags.
What happens next?
Boniface has now returned to Leverkusen and is awaiting a final decision from Milan. Club insiders have indicated that an announcement, one way or the other, will be made in the coming days. If the deal collapses, Milan will be forced back into the market just days before the transfer window closes.
For the striker himself, this uncertainty comes at a crucial point in his career. Boniface scored 22 goals last season and looked ready to make the step up to one of Europe’s traditional giants. Should Milan pull out, questions will be raised over how other elite clubs view his long-term fitness.
A defining moment for both sides
For AC Milan, the saga underlines the growing caution in today’s transfer market. Clubs are unwilling to gamble on players with questionable medical records, no matter their talent. For Bayer Leverkusen, the situation is awkward—losing a striker of Boniface’s calibre would be a blow, but a collapsed deal may also reignite confidence in his role for the Bundesliga champions.
As of now, Milan’s medical staff are reviewing all findings, and the club is expected to reach a decision imminently. Boniface’s dream of pulling on the red and black shirt is hanging by a thread, with the next 48 hours likely to determine whether the transfer survives or falls apart.
