VICTOR Boniface’s highly anticipated transfer to AC Milan has hit a major stumbling block after concerns emerged over the Nigerian striker’s right knee during routine medicals on Friday.
The 24-year-old Bayer Leverkusen forward, who was expected to be officially unveiled this weekend, underwent initial examinations at Milan’s club facilities and the CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) headquarters before being referred to the prestigious Galeazzi Hospital in the city for further checks.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan even recalled their trusted orthopaedic surgeon from holiday to personally oversee Boniface’s evaluations, an unusual step that underscores the seriousness of the club’s concerns.
Despite the extensive tests, doubts persist. Boniface is scheduled to undergo additional examinations on Saturday, which will determine whether the Rossoneri proceed with the deal or walk away entirely.
Milan had already agreed a loan arrangement worth €5 million with an option to buy for €25 million, bringing the total potential package to €30 million.
However, given the medical red flag, club officials are reportedly pushing for a price reduction while simultaneously exploring other attacking options on the transfer market.
The Nigerian international’s injury history is well-documented. Boniface underwent two anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgeries in 2019 and 2020, both on his knees, and suffered recurring muscular issues during the 2023/24 season.
Those setbacks limited him to just 27 appearances in all competitions, though he still managed an impressive return of 11 goals and 2 assists.
Last season in the Bundesliga, Boniface was among Bayer Leverkusen’s standout performers, scoring 14 goals in just 23 league appearances and helping Xabi Alonso’s side to a historic title-winning campaign.
Boniface’s arrival was expected to be a marquee signing for Milan, who are seeking to bolster their frontline ahead of their Serie A opener against Cremonese at San Siro this weekend.
The striker was originally scheduled to be unveiled and introduced to fans during the match.
Instead, his future now hangs in the balance, with the next 24 hours set to be decisive. A clean bill of health could see Milan complete the deal swiftly, but confirmation of underlying issues may lead to renegotiations or even collapse of the transfer altogether.
For Boniface, the setback is a frustrating twist in what should have been a career-defining move.
For Milan, it’s a race against time to determine whether the Nigerian forward is worth the gamble.
