Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has opened up about a high-profile transfer deal that nearly saw him move to the Saudi Pro League. According to the forward, the move was all but finalized during the January transfer window. Bayer Leverkusen had agreed to a €70 million fee, personal terms were settled, and Boniface had even completed his medicals. Confident that the deal was done, he gave away most of his designer clothes and shoes to friends, fully expecting to start a new chapter in Saudi Arabia.
The Nigerian striker shared that he consulted his elder brother about the move. While his brother initially advised him to wait for a European offer, he reconsidered when the proposed Saudi wage package—reportedly €45 million over three years—was revealed. With everything appearing to align perfectly, Boniface traveled to Frankfurt, staying in a hotel while awaiting final instructions from the club. He prayed and waited for confirmation. But then, unexpectedly, the Saudi team chose to sign Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran instead, abruptly ending the transfer.
Despite the disappointment, Boniface’s career has been on an upward trajectory since joining Bayer Leverkusen in July 2023. He has contributed to 44 goals—scoring 32 and assisting 12—making him one of the most valuable forwards in the Bundesliga. Now at 23, his performances have attracted attention from top European clubs, including AC Milan, suggesting another big move could still be on the horizon.
Boniface’s story offers a glimpse into the unpredictable nature of football transfers, where even finalized deals can fall apart in an instant. For now, he remains focused on continuing his success in Europe and preparing for the next big opportunity in his career.
