AC Milan is actively pursuing Nigerian forward Victor Boniface as a primary target for their attack in the upcoming summer transfer window. Initial contacts have reportedly been made with the player, who is high on the club`s list of potential center-forwards. Just nine months ago, Boniface left a lasting impression on Milan fans when he scored the decisive goal in Bayer Leverkusen`s 1-0 Champions League victory over the Rossoneri. While Milan is evaluating several candidates, including Dusan Vlahovic, Boniface is considered one of the most intriguing prospects.
Boniface`s Playing Style
Boniface possesses the physical and technical attributes sought after by Milan`s management. He excels as a penalty box presence and has the ability to hold up the ball and link play for the team. Although not a prolific goal-scorer by volume, he certainly knows how to find the net, with 21 goals in the 2023-24 season (14 in Bundesliga, 5 in Europa League), despite a challenging, injury-affected last season where he scored 11. His career trajectory has been a journey southward, starting from Nigeria, moving to Bodo Glimt in Norway, then Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, and finally Bayer Leverkusen. Milan lies even further south, directly in his path.
Transfer Cost and Feasibility
Early 2025 saw Boniface valued between 50-60 million euros. In January, he was close to joining Al Nassr, who were looking for a striker. In a twist of fate, Al Nassr opted for Jhon Duran instead, a decision that proved less than ideal as Duran has since moved to Fenerbahçe on loan. Boniface`s market value has since decreased significantly, primarily due to his physical issues and the exceptional form of Patrick Schick, who has become Leverkusen`s main attacking threat. This reduction in price makes a transfer for 30 to 40 million euros a distinct possibility. His salary is not expected to be a hurdle for Milan.
Pros and Cons of Victor Boniface
Injuries are a significant factor in Boniface`s career narrative. He has undergone two knee operations and sustained a thigh muscle injury in the 2024-25 season. While he possesses impressive physical capabilities, he has struggled with consistency in appearances, playing 19 Bundesliga matches in the last Bundesliga season, 23 in the one prior, and 31 in Belgium two years ago. However, his age is on his side—he will turn 25 just before Christmas. Furthermore, with Milan potentially playing only one match per week, the club could effectively manage his recovery and workload, making this a potentially ideal pairing.
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