Saudi Pro League giants Al Nassr have put their move for Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface on hold at the last moment, with uncertainty now surrounding the deal, Soccernet.ng reports.
Victor Boniface’s transfer had appeared all but done after Al Nassr agreed a €60 million fee with Leverkusen.
Sky Sports Germany previously reported that the Nigerian forward had already completed and passed his medical, clearing the final hurdle. The 24-year-old also reached full agreement on salary and contract terms, with an annual net wage of €15 million.
However, fresh reports indicate the deal has suddenly stalled, even as Victor Boniface was packed and ready to travel to Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr’s delegation.
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The unexpected delay appears to stem from Al Nassr's simultaneous negotiations with Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran. Reports suggest that while Leverkusen are awaiting the final signatures, they have received unconfirmed information that Al Nassr are weighing up either Boniface or Duran—not both.
Duran, 21, has already agreed personal terms with Al Nassr, and his representatives are confident of sealing the move. Aston Villa have received a €70 million offer for the Colombian forward.
The report reads: “There is great confusion because @AlNassrFC have not yet finalized the agreements with Bayer 04 Leverkusen in writing.
“Victor #Boniface is ready to depart with Al-Nassr’s delegation. He has fully agreed with Al-Nassr on salary and contract duration. The medical has already been completed and passed. The clubs reached a full agreement on the transfer fee on Tuesday evening.
“However, Leverkusen now have unconfirmed information that Al-Nassr are negotiating with Jhon #Duran in parallel and want to sign Boniface or Duran. Been told Duran’s agents are confident to bring him to Saudi Arabia. As per @Tanziloic, Aston Villa received an offer of around €70m.
“Leverkusen waiting for the signatures.”
There is great confusion because @AlNassrFC have not yet finalized the agreements with Bayer 04 Leverkusen in writing.
⚠️ Victor #Boniface is ready to depart with Al-Nassr’s delegation. He has fully agreed with Al-Nassr on salary and contract duration. The medical has… pic.twitter.com/ByrgcLD6Bz
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) January 28, 2025
Boniface has been outstanding for Leverkusen since joining in 2023, playing a key role in their historic Bundesliga, German Cup, and Super Cup treble.
Victor Boniface's debut season saw him win the Bundesliga Rookie of the Year award, scoring 21 goals and providing 10 assists in 34 appearances.
His absence from training on Tuesday only fueled speculation of an imminent exit. Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso confirmed the uncertainty, stating:
“There are discussions with the club, and we need to wait. We’re preparing without Boni.”
With Victor Boniface potentially heading to Saudi Arabia, Leverkusen are already looking for a replacement. One of their top targets is Brighton’s Evan Ferguson, a highly-rated 20-year-old also on the radar of West Ham United.
The coming days will determine whether Boniface seals his move or remains at Leverkusen amid Al Nassr’s indecision.
