Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface has returned to training with Bayer Leverkusen after a potential €15 million per season move to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr was called off. The 23-year-old Nigerian striker, who was excused from training and Leverkusen’s UEFA Champions League match-day squad on Wednesday, shared a picture of himself back in training with his teammates on Thursday.

The transfer saga took a dramatic turn when transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano announced via X (formerly Twitter) that the deal between Boniface and Al Nassr had collapsed. “Victor Boniface and Al Nassr, deal off. The Nigerian striker won’t join the club; the deal was advanced but never done as Al Nassr never gave the final green light,” Romano stated.

Details of the Failed Transfer

Reports indicate that negotiations between Bayer Leverkusen and Al Nassr progressed swiftly, with the Saudi club prepared to pay €60 million for Boniface—€10 million more than Leverkusen’s initial asking price of €50 million. However, the deal fell through as Al Nassr shifted their focus to Aston Villa’s John Durán, their primary target.

According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Al Nassr had initially prioritized Boniface due to uncertainties surrounding Durán’s transfer. However, after fresh rounds of negotiations, Aston Villa softened their stance and agreed to sell Durán to Al Nassr for a guaranteed fee of €77 million plus potential add-ons. The Colombian forward has reportedly agreed to a five-and-a-half-year deal and is set to undergo a medical in London.

With the Saudi transfer window closing on January 31, Al Nassr moved quickly to secure Durán, leaving Boniface’s proposed transfer in limbo.

Boniface’s Return to Leverkusen

For Boniface, the collapse of the Al Nassr deal means he will remain with Bayer Leverkusen, at least for the time being. The Nigerian forward, who joined Leverkusen in the summer of 2023 for €20 million plus add-ons, has been a key player for the German club. Last season, he played a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s double triumph, scoring 21 goals and providing 10 assists in 34 games across all competitions.

This season, Boniface has continued to impress, contributing eight goals and one assist in 15 games before suffering a thigh injury in November 2023. He has since recovered and is now back in training, ready to help Leverkusen in their pursuit of domestic and European success.

Leverkusen’s Stance on Boniface

Bayer Leverkusen has shown a willingness to sell Boniface if the right offer comes along, but the club is in no rush to part ways with the talented forward. His performances have made him a fan favorite, and his return to fitness is a significant boost for the team as they aim to maintain their strong form in the Bundesliga and other competitions.

What’s Next for Boniface?

While the Al Nassr deal may have fallen through, Boniface’s future remains a topic of interest. His impressive goal-scoring record and versatility make him an attractive prospect for clubs across Europe and beyond. Leverkusen’s willingness to entertain offers suggests that Boniface could still secure a high-profile move in the future, provided the right conditions are met.

For now, the Nigerian striker is focused on regaining full fitness and contributing to Leverkusen’s campaign. His return to training is a positive sign for both the player and the club, as they look to build on their recent successes.

Conclusion

Victor Boniface’s potential move to Al Nassr may have collapsed, but his return to Bayer Leverkusen training signals a fresh start for the Nigerian forward. With his talent and determination, Boniface is poised to continue making an impact at the highest level of football.

As the transfer window drama subsides, all eyes will be on Boniface as he aims to help Leverkusen achieve their goals this season. Whether he remains with the German club or secures a move elsewhere in the future, one thing is certain: Victor Boniface’s star is on the rise, and his journey is one to watch.

For now, Leverkusen fans can breathe a sigh of relief as their key striker returns to action, ready to light up the pitch once again.