Victor Boniface nears AC Milan move as Bayer Leverkusen weigh option

The 24-year-old forward, once a standout for the Bundesliga champions, has struggled to secure a starting role under new manager Erik ten Hag, prompting talks of a fresh challenge in Serie A.

Multiple sources, including Sky Germany and Kicker, reported that Leverkusen and Milan have agreed on a loan move with an option to buy for around 30 million euros. While Boniface has given his approval for the transfer, discussions over personal terms with the Rossoneri are ongoing, leaving the deal just short of completion.

Leverkusen's managing director for sport, Simon Rolfes, addressed the situation on Wednesday, acknowledging the club's depth in attack as a key factor. "We have three strikers competing for one spot," Rolfes told reporters. "We're discussing what's best for Victor and for us. A move could be the right step, but nothing is finalized yet."

Boniface, who joined Leverkusen from Union Saint-Gilloise in 2023 for 22.6 million euros, made an immediate impact, scoring 21 goals and providing 10 assists in his debut season to help secure the Bundesliga title. However, injuries and the emergence of Patrik Schick and summer signing Christian Kofane have limited him to just 12 league starts last season, where he still managed eight goals in 18 appearances.

AC Milan, eager to bolster their attacking options, have prioritized Boniface after stalled talks for Manchester United's Rasmus Højlund. The Italians see the Nigerian as a dynamic addition to their squad, especially with Noah Okafor's imminent move to Leeds United leaving them short up top.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano noted on X, "Negotiations are advancing today, with Boniface saying yes to Milan's contract proposal."

Despite his earlier commitment to Leverkusen, where he told SportBild in July, "I love it here," Boniface appears open to the move. Milan's sporting director, Igli Tare, has been instrumental in pushing the deal forward, with sources indicating confidence on all sides that an agreement will be reached soon.

The potential transfer is part of a busy period for Leverkusen, who are also linked with Feyenoord's Julien Timber and face interest from Al Ahli in midfielder Exequiel Palacios.

As the transfer window nears its close, Boniface's departure could mark a significant shift for both clubs, with Milan gaining a proven goal-scorer and Leverkusen freeing up space for their evolving squad.