Victor Boniface pictured playing for Bayer Leverkusen, amid West Ham United's surprise £21m transfer opportunity – Getty Images / caughtoffside.com
Credit: Getty Images / caughtoffside.com
West Ham have been offered the chance to sign Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface for £21m after his AC Milan move collapsed due to medical concerns over his right knee.
West Ham Weigh Up £21m Boniface Move as Medical Concerns Stall Milan Transfer
West Ham United find themselves with an unexpected opportunity to secure Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface after the Nigerian’s proposed move to AC Milan dramatically collapsed following a failed medical examination. Reports indicate the Hammers have been offered the chance to sign the 24-year-old for approximately £21m, though they remain cautious about pursuing the deal aggressively.
Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes officially confirmed that Boniface will not be joining AC Milan, with the Serie A giants withdrawing their interest due to concerns about the striker’s right knee discovered during medical tests. The failed Milan deal would have involved a €5m loan fee with a €24m option to buy, but Boniface has now returned to training with the Bundesliga champions while his future remains uncertain with Monday’s transfer deadline looming.
The medical concerns surrounding Boniface present a calculated risk for West Ham, who are reportedly considering whether to gamble on his fitness despite his impressive record of 32 goals and 12 assists in 61 appearances for Leverkusen. The striker, who earns around £95,000 per week, was instrumental in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga triumph in the 2023/24 season, showcasing the physicality and goal threat that initially attracted Milan’s interest.
West Ham’s position remains deliberately measured, with sources suggesting the club is prioritizing other transfer targets before entering serious negotiations for Boniface. Manager Graham Potter’s track record of developing players has led to speculation that he could help rehabilitate the Nigerian international, though no official statements have emerged from the London Stadium regarding their level of interest or any potential contract terms.
The collapsed Milan move has created an intriguing scenario where Boniface’s proven Bundesliga quality comes with significant medical question marks that ultimately deterred one of Europe’s major clubs. With the transfer window closing imminently, West Ham must decide whether the potential reward of securing a proven goalscorer justifies the risk of his injury concerns, while Bayer Leverkusen appear content to retain a player they believe still has significant development potential despite the recent setback.
