Why Boniface’s Milan move collapsed — Di Marzio

Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio has revealed the events that led to AC Milan pulling the plug on Victor Boniface’s proposed loan move in the summer transfer window.

The Super Eagles forward, who later joined Werder Bremen on loan from Bayer Leverkusen, had travelled to Milan for a medical but was sent back after the Serie A club conducted a thorough review of his physical condition.

Speaking to Milan Vibes, Di Marzio said the club was aware of Boniface’s medical history but wanted to be certain about his fitness before committing to the deal.

“With Boniface, Milan was aware of the physical issues the player had faced. We’re not talking about a club that didn’t know his medical history and career path. They simply wanted to be extra sure about his physical condition, also looking ahead to the future, even though it was a loan,” Di Marzio said.

Sometimes, when you invest 40 million to buy a player, past problems weigh even more. But in this case, regardless of it being a loan, after reviewing his medical record, both past and present, the club decided to move towards a player who was more ready and could provide stronger guarantees.”

The renowned journalist defended Milan’s decision to conduct the medical in Italy rather than abroad, calling it a more transparent approach. 

Here, everyone knew the player had arrived, and the club made a decision. It’s unfortunate for the player because I know he was eager to wear the Milan shirt. But these things happen, just like with Harder, who had a contract practically signed and documents already exchanged.”

Di Marzio added that Milan’s pursuit of Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku may have influenced their decision.

“Maybe you get the chance to sign Nkunku, and you judge that he’s more useful for both the present and the future than a player who still needed to be fully assessed,” he said.

Boniface, 24, eventually joined Bremen on loan and has made four substitute appearances for the four-time Bundesliga champions, providing one assist in their 4-0 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach.