Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface’s anticipated transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr has fallen through, as the club has chosen to sign Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran instead.
Al Nassr secured a €77 million deal, including add-ons, for the Colombian striker, effectively ending their interest in the Nigerian international.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, negotiations for Boniface had been progressing, with a Saudi delegation in Germany since Monday to finalize terms. The club had opened talks with Bayer Leverkusen, who valued the 24-year-old at around €50 million.
Boniface, who joined Leverkusen from Union Saint-Gilloise in 2023 for €20 million, recently signed a contract extension until 2029, solidifying his status as one of the club’s highest earners. Despite interest from Al Nassr, the Saudi club ultimately decided to withdraw from the deal in favor of Duran.
The 21-year-old Colombian forward has reportedly agreed to personal terms and is set to sign a long-term contract with Al Nassr. His medical is scheduled for Thursday, January 30, after which he will officially complete the move.
Duran will now join a star-studded Al Nassr squad featuring global icons Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mané. Meanwhile, Boniface remains with Bayer Leverkusen, where he continues to play a key role in their Bundesliga title defense.
With Al Nassr moving on, Boniface’s future remains uncertain, but he could attract further interest in the summer transfer window.