Victor Boniface’s dream move to join Serie A giants AC Milan has collapsed after the Nigerian striker failed his medicals…
AC Milan have shifted their focus to Sporting CP striker Conrad Harder after ending their pursuit of Nigerian forward Victor Boniface, Soccernet.ng reports.
Milan had pushed to bring Boniface from Bayer Leverkusen as a key attacking reinforcement, but red flags during his medical examinations raised doubts about his long-term fitness.
The development comes as a major setback for Boniface, who has been one of Nigeria’s most exciting exports in Europe since joining Bayer Leverkusen.
Despite helping the German side with success in two seasons, he has now returned to the Bundesliga with his future at the BayArena uncertain.
Odemwingie on Boniface
Before the transfer collapsed, former Nigeria international Peter Odemwingie had spoken highly of the move, where he revealed that AC Milan would have been the perfect club for Boniface to continue his development.
“I think this is a huge opportunity for Victor. He has proved himself in Germany with his goals and work rate, but Milan is a different kind of challenge, a club where the expectations are always high. Playing in Serie A will push him tactically, technically, and mentally, and I believe that will only make him stronger.” He told Footy Africa.
Odemwingie argued that the Serie A giants’ rich tradition of nurturing strikers could have taken the 24-year-old’s game to another level.
“Victor is powerful, sharp, and always hungry for goals. What stands out to me is his mentality, he plays without fear and with great determination. Milan’s system will suit his movement, and with the passionate support of the fans, I expect him to grow into one of their key players.”
AC Milan Shifts Focus to Harder
With the Boniface deal dead, Milan have quickly shifted its focus to 20-year-old Danish striker Conrad Harder.
Per Top Mercato, the Rossoneri are now in advanced talks with Sporting CP, with Rennes also lurking after previously agreeing on a €23 million fee plus €3 million in bonuses and a 10% resale clause.
That move broke down after Harder’s agents demanded more than €1 million in commissions, which leaves Milan in pole position.
The Italian giants are keen to finalise a deal swiftly, particularly after losing Arnaud Kalimuendo to Nottingham Forest in a €30 million transfer.
Harder, who has already made his senior debut for Denmark, is seen as a forward who fits both Allegri’s system and Milan’s long-term project.
What This Means For Boniface
Reports circulating reveal that AC Milan might likely renegotiate with Bayer Leverkusen—with a reduced loan fee or securing him on a free transfer—but with the chase of Harder, this also looks like a broken deal.
This would see Boniface return to Leverkusen's dressing room, and he would be looking to impress Erik ten Hag.
