Alonso confirms Boniface in talks to leave Leverkusen for Al Nassr

'Sky Germany' have reported that Victor Boniface, 24, is set to move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, for a transfer fee above 50 million euros ($52 million). Boniface arrived in Leverkusen from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise 18 months ago for 20 million euros.

He has scored 29 goals and laid on 11 assists in 49 matches for the club but has not played since November when he picked up a hamstring injury while on international duty. The Nigeria striker missed training ahead of Wednesday's Champions League clash with Sparta Prague.

"There are discussions with the club and we need to wait. We're preparing without Boni," Alonso told reporters Tuesday. "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 revealed Bayer Leverkusen were "getting close" to signing more players during the winter window and added: "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 returned to form for Leverkusen with 13 goals in his past nine league games.

Schick said Tuesday a possible Boniface departure "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 and whether Victor is here or not." The 29-year-old Schick came through the youth system at Sparta Prague and said with a smile he was looking forward to some extra attention from the visiting fans. "It will be fun -- I expect them to insult me from the stands."

 

January 27, 2025