Victor Boniface saw his AC Milan move collapse after concerns were raised during his medical, according to reports in Italy.
Victor Boniface had travelled to Milan midweek to complete a €5m loan move, with an option to buy for €30m.
After spending the past 48 hours in limbo, the forward underwent checks at Milan, before being referred to the Galeazzi Orthopaedic Institute, where doctors flagged issues with his right knee.
In addition to injury complications, AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri was reportedly unconvinced. The Italian had raised concerns about the player’s injury record and long-term reliability.
Victor Boniface had been set to wear the Rossoneri’s iconic number 22 shirt, once donned by Brazilian legend Kaká before the club ultimately decided to pull the plug on the deal.
It is the second collapsed transfer for the 24-year-old in just seven months. Back in January, Boniface came close to joining Saudi side Al Nassr in a deal worth around €70 million before the club instead opted for Colombian striker Jhon Duran.
Milan had viewed Boniface as a key addition to bolster their attack. He was expected to slot in alongside Rafael Leão and fellow Nigerian, Samuel Chukwueze.
With the move now off, Boniface will return to Germany, where he is under contract with Bayer Leverkusen until 2028. He is expected to rejoin Leverkusen’s squad after their difficult Bundesliga opener, a 2-1 home defeat to Hoffenheim.
However, his playing time is expected to be limited, as reports in Germany suggest he is not in ten Hag’s plans for the season, with the Dutchman favouring Patrik Schick upfront.