Nigeria international striker Victor Boniface is on the verge of sealing a move to AC Milan, with the forward completing the final stages of his medical tests in Italy this weekend.
The 24-year-old, who currently plays for Bayer Leverkusen, arrived in Milan on Friday to undergo the first part of his medical assessment at the club’s facilities and later at the offices of CONI, the Italian Olympic Committee, as is required for all new arrivals in Serie A. He continued the process on Saturday with more detailed checks at the Galeazzi Hospital in Milan, where Milan’s trusted orthopaedic surgeon was recalled from holiday specifically to oversee his examination.
The extensive nature of the tests underscores Milan’s cautious approach, given Boniface’s history with injuries. Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport confirm that the club wanted to ensure every detail was properly examined before finalising the transfer.
Injury Concerns Loom
Boniface’s talent has never been in doubt, but his career has been hampered by fitness setbacks. During his two-year stint with Bayer Leverkusen, he struggled with recurring muscular problems that disrupted his progress and limited his playing time.
His most serious issues, however, were anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, which required surgery in March 2019 and again in November 2020. For a striker whose game relies heavily on strength, pace, and quick movements, such injuries naturally raise questions about long-term durability.
Despite these setbacks, Boniface showed flashes of brilliance last season, registering 11 goals and two assists in 27 appearances across all competitions. His powerful presence up front, ability to hold off defenders, and eye for goal have made him a valuable target for Milan, who are keen to bolster their attacking options after a challenging Serie A campaign.
Milan’s Transfer Strategy
AC Milan’s pursuit of Boniface aligns with their broader strategy of investing in young, dynamic players who can make an immediate impact but also develop into long-term assets. The Rossoneri, who have been rebuilding in recent years, are looking to reclaim their dominance in Italy and Europe.
The move for Boniface, however, has not been without debate. Legendary Italian manager Fabio Capello recently commented that Milan might have been better suited going for Manchester United striker Rasmus Højlund, suggesting the Danish forward would have been a more “perfect signing.” Nevertheless, Milan’s management believe Boniface brings a unique profile to their attack—one that blends physicality with technical ability.
Should the medicals be completed without complications, Boniface is expected to put pen to paper on a long-term deal that will officially make him a Milan player in the coming days.
Nigerian Spotlight in Serie A
Boniface’s move also continues a strong Nigerian presence in European football, particularly in Italy. The success of Victor Osimhen at Napoli, who fired the club to their first Serie A title in over three decades, has raised the profile of Nigerian strikers in the Italian top flight.
For Boniface, the challenge will be to replicate such an impact while overcoming the injury concerns that have dogged his career. His physical attributes and determination suggest he has the tools, but consistent fitness will be the key to making his mark at San Siro.
Looking Ahead
As Milan fans await official confirmation of the transfer, optimism is mixed with caution. Supporters are eager to see a new striker who can shoulder the goalscoring burden, but they are also aware of the risks attached to Boniface’s medical history.
If he stays fit, Boniface could become one of Serie A’s standout forwards, offering Milan both goals and a commanding presence in attack. If not, questions will linger about whether the club took too great a gamble.
Either way, the Nigerian’s imminent arrival is another sign of Milan’s intent to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level, both in Italy and in the Champions League.
For Victor Boniface, the medicals are just the final hurdle before he embarks on a new chapter of his career—a chapter that could define not only his future but also Milan’s attacking fortunes in the years to come.
