Bayer Leverkusen head coach, Xabi Alonso, confirmed on Tuesday that striker Victor Boniface is currently in discussions about a potential move away from the club during the ongoing transfer window.
According to Sky Germany, the 24-year-old Nigerian forward is nearing a transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, where he would join Cristiano Ronaldo.
The reported transfer fee exceeds €50 million ($52 million).
Boniface joined Leverkusen 18 months ago from Belgian outfit Union Saint-Gilloise in a deal worth €20 million. Since then, he has registered an impressive 29 goals and 11 assists in 49 appearances for the Bundesliga side.
However, he has been sidelined since November due to a hamstring injury sustained on international duty.
The striker was notably absent from training ahead of Leverkusen’s decisive Champions League match against Sparta Prague on Wednesday.
“There are discussions with the club, and we need to wait. We’re preparing without Boni,” Alonso told reporters. “We will see. We need to wait a bit more, but our preparation is with the rest of our squad who are ready and fit and in good shape at the moment. It’s the last Champions League game, and that’s our focus.”
Alonso also hinted at potential new arrivals in the winter transfer window, saying, “We’re getting close. I’m very satisfied with the squad and with our quality… and will be (at the end of the window).”
In Boniface’s absence, Patrik Schick has stepped up, scoring 13 goals in his last nine league outings.
Speaking on Tuesday, the 29-year-old forward downplayed the potential impact of Boniface’s departure.
“It doesn’t change very much… I’ve always been focused on myself and I’m not looking at anyone else. I’ll keep going like I have, whether Victor is here or not,” Schick said.
A product of Sparta Prague’s youth system, Schick expressed excitement about facing his former club, acknowledging the likely reception from visiting fans.
“It will be fun – I expect them to insult me from the stands,” he added with a smile.
