Nigerian striker, Victor Boniface is set to trade European glory for the riches of the Saudi Pro League, as Al Nassr has reportedly sealed a blockbuster €60 million deal to lure the Bayer Leverkusen forward to the Middle East.
This transfer, which escalated from whispers to an imminent reality in just 48 hours, is set to shake up both Bundesliga and Saudi football landscapes.
From Bundesliga Star to Saudi Sensation
Victor Boniface was instrumental in Leverkusen’s historic double triumph last season, delivering 21 goals and 10 assists in just 34 games.
The 24-year-old’s explosive form turned him into one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers, with Premier League clubs circling, but no one expected a Saudi switch this soon.
Yet, in a move that signals the power of Middle Eastern football’s financial firepower, Boniface is heading to Al Nassr, where he will team up with Cristiano Ronaldo in what could become one of the league’s most lethal attacking partnerships.
His staggering €15 million per season salary dwarfs his previous Leverkusen wages by over 500%, making this a deal impossible to ignore.
The Sudden Exit: What Really Happened Behind the Scenes?
Reports from Germany suggest Boniface skipped training on Tuesday, just 24 hours before Leverkusen’s Champions League clash against Sparta Prague.
While the official word from the club was that he was in discussions with another team, insiders suggest that the Nigerian striker had already passed his medical and was waiting for the final green light.
Leverkusen’s initial asking price of €50 million was blown out of the water when Al Nassr aggressively pursued the deal, adding an extra €10 million to convince the Bundesliga leaders.
Manager Xabi Alonso was reportedly reluctant to let him go, especially with the club chasing silverware on multiple fronts, but the decision was out of his hands.
Why Did Boniface Choose Saudi Arabia Over Europe?
Many expected Boniface to stay in Europe, with Manchester United, Chelsea, and AC Milan monitoring his progress. However, sources close to the player claim the Al Nassr project was too tempting to resist.
With Anderson Talisca departing, the Saudi giants desperately needed a new star to support Ronaldo, and Boniface fit the bill perfectly.
Additionally, injuries have plagued Boniface in recent months, and a move to Saudi Arabia presents a fresh start with less physical demands compared to the intensity of European leagues.
What’s Next for Leverkusen?
Losing a key striker in the middle of the season is a blow for Leverkusen, but they have already lined up replacements, with reports linking them to Mario Hermoso and Emiliano Buendia.
With six days left in the transfer window, Alonso’s side is expected to make swift moves.
Final Verdict: A Risky Gamble or a Genius Move?
Boniface’s decision is bound to divide opinion. Some will see it as a step back for a player destined for Premier League or La Liga stardom, while others will view it as a smart financial decision.
Regardless, the football world will be watching closely as he embarks on his new journey alongside one of the greatest players of all time.
So, was this a career-defining masterstroke or a money-driven detour? Only time will tell.
