Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface's much-anticipated move from Bayer Leverkusen to Italian giants AC Milan has dramatically collapsed following significant medical concerns. Initially, the transfer was structured as a season-long loan deal worth €5 million, with an option to buy for around €30 million, and personal terms had been agreed upon. Milan had even prepared the iconic No. 22 shirt, famously worn by Brazilian great Kaka, for Boniface's unveiling at San Siro, suggesting a high level of confidence in the deal.

However, what was expected to be a straightforward transfer began to unravel after Boniface arrived in Milan to undergo routine medical examinations. After initial checks at the Centro Ambrosiano, doctors flagged issues with his right knee, prompting further tests at the Galeazzi Orthopaedic Institute. Italian journalist Marco Guidi of Gazzetta dello Sport confirmed that Boniface's right knee was "not 100% fit," a finding that immediately caused Milan to hesitate in finalizing the agreement.

The medical team's caution was heightened by Boniface's history of two anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgeries and recurring groin issues throughout his career. Although his recent absences had been predominantly due to muscle problems rather than his cruciate ligament, the lingering concerns from these past injuries were enough for Milan to reconsider the terms. Sporting Director Igli Tare acknowledged that while Boniface's "football skills are excellent," the club needed to "make the right decision" after conducting all necessary assessments regarding the player's health, also consulting with coach Max Allegri.

Compounding the medical red flags, reports emerged that AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri was not in favor of the transfer. While Milan's directors were reportedly impressed with Boniface's Bundesliga performances, Allegri expressed concerns over the striker's injury record and long-term reliability, adding another layer of doubt to the deal. Milan explored renegotiating the terms, potentially asking Bayer Leverkusen to lower the loan fee or even make it free, in an effort to minimize their financial risk given the medical uncertainties.

Ultimately, after undergoing four separate medical examinations, none of which fully convinced the club, AC Milan decided to end their pursuit of the Nigerian forward. Transfer experts Fabrizio Romano and Sacha Tavolieri confirmed that Boniface had returned to Germany after spending 48 hours in Milan awaiting a final decision. This setback marks the second time a high-profile transfer for Boniface has fallen through in seven months, following a collapsed move to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr in January.

The collapse of this dream move leaves Boniface's immediate future uncertain. He is now set to return to Bayer Leverkusen, where new manager Erik ten Hag is reportedly not believed to have him in his plans, which could significantly limit his game time. This situation forces Boniface to focus on regaining full fitness and reviving his transfer prospects. Meanwhile, AC Milan will now redirect their resources towards securing two alternative strikers to bolster their attacking options for the upcoming season, leaving Boniface's Serie A aspirations on hold.