From Kaka to Boniface? AC Milan issue Nigerian striker jersey number as deal awaits medical verdict

Super Eagles star Victor Boniface, Bayer Leverkusen. Photo by IMAGO

Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface is on the verge of joining AC Milan from Bayer Leverkusen on a season-long loan deal, Soccernet.ng reports.

While the transfer is experiencing late complications, AC Milan look ready for the Victor Boniface unveiling with his kit number all done and dusted.

Boniface appears set to follow in the footsteps of some of AC Milan’s famous forwards with the No.22 shirt presently lined up for him at Casa Milan, according to Italian journalist, Louis Girardi.

The Nigerian striker, who made his name at Bayer Leverkusen, is expected to be unveiled in the jersey once his loan move was finalised

Milan-based transfer insider Girardi even shared an image of the shirt alleged printed with Boniface’s name and number. No.22 carries history at San Siro, having previously been worn by the likes of Brazilian great Kaka, and its preparation suggests Milan see Boniface as a marquee addition.

Photo Credit: IMAGO
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Victor Boniface transfer to Milan stalls?
But while the shirt is ready, the transfer itself is far from complete. Boniface’s arrival from Germany on Friday was followed by a lengthy series of medical tests, with Milan doctors now hesitant about signing off the deal.

The move had been structured as a €5m loan with an option to buy for around €30m, and Boniface had already agreed personal terms.

  Photo by IMAGO
On landing in Milan, he underwent initial medical checks at the Centro Ambrosiano, before being sent for further examinations at the Galeazzi Orthopaedic Institute. The extra scrutiny was ordered after concerns linked to his injury record, which includes two anterior cruciate ligament operations and recurring groin problems.

Though Nigerian journalist Buchi Laba insisted the forward “passed his medicals” after three separate checks, Fabrizio Romano noted that Milan wanted a final verdict from their orthopaedic team within 24 hours.

Belgian reporter Sacha Tavolieri was more cautious, suggesting the latest scans had cooled Milan’s enthusiasm and left the move “at real risk” of collapsing.

The delay comes as a frustration for both player and club. Boniface’s form in Germany over the past two seasons had convinced Milan he could add firepower to their attack, and the loan-to-buy deal was seen as a smart piece of business.

For now, however, the forward must wait as the Rossoneri balance their ambition with medical due diligence.

Milan are expected to decide whether to proceed after their Serie A fixture against Cremonese. A negative medical verdict would see Boniface return to Leverkusen to continue his career in Germany.

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad.

From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.