AS the 2025/26 European summer transfer window reaches its final hours, two of Nigeria’s brightest football exports, Victor Boniface and Ademola Lookman are experiencing sharply contrasting fortunes.
News Point Nigeria Sports reports that the Nigerian striker Victor Boniface, who just last week saw a dream move to AC Milan collapse over long-standing injury concerns, has now successfully completed his medical tests at Werder Bremen, raising hopes of a last-minute Bundesliga switch.
Renowned transfer insider Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development on X, stating: “Victor Boniface has just completed his medical tests at Werder Bremen.”
The move offers the 24-year-old a fresh start after his career has been repeatedly disrupted by fitness setbacks. Boniface was forced to miss the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations due to a muscle injury and has also battled recurring knee problems that nearly derailed his rise.
Just last week, Boniface returned to training with Bayer Leverkusen, but was left out of the squad for their thrilling 3-3 draw against Bremen, sparking speculation that he was on his way out.
Bremen’s decision to push forward with a deal, despite his injury history, shows their determination to secure a proven goalscorer as they fight to strengthen their attacking line.
While Boniface edges closer to a Bundesliga lifeline, his Super Eagles teammate Ademola Lookman is facing a frustrating impasse.
According to The Athletic, Bayern Munich tabled a deadline day bid to sign the Atalanta winger on loan, with an option to buy at the end of the season. However, Atalanta flatly rejected the approach, insisting they would only sanction a permanent transfer.
The Italian club reportedly considered Bayern’s €28 million option-to-buy clause well below Lookman’s true market value, which they estimate at €50 million.
Lookman, who has been instrumental for Atalanta since joining from RB Leipzig, is said to be open to a new challenge.
Earlier in the window, Inter Milan saw a €42 million plus €3 million add-ons bid rejected, as Atalanta are unwilling to strengthen a Serie A rival.
The rejection has fueled tension between player and club. Lookman has been training separately after briefly protesting the blocked move, leaving his future uncertain with only hours left before the transfer deadline.
Bayern are not the only club circling. Tottenham Hotspur and Galatasaray are also monitoring the Nigerian winger’s situation, with late bids still possible.
But Atalanta’s firm stance suggests only a major permanent offer will be entertained.
The two transfer sagas underline the unpredictable nature of football’s most frantic period. While Boniface prepares for a fresh chapter in Germany, Lookman may be forced to remain in Bergamo, at least until January, despite high-profile interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
For Nigeria, the developments carry added significance: Boniface’s revival at Bremen could provide the Super Eagles with another attacking option, while Lookman’s unsettled status may impact his form ahead of crucial international fixtures.
As the window slams shut, one thing is clear, Nigeria’s stars continue to command attention on Europe’s biggest stages, for better and for worse.