“I Gave Out My Designer Clothes” — Victor Boniface Reveals How Saudi Arabia Move Collapsed at Final Hour
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Victor Boniface of Bayer Leverkusen nearly joined Saudi side Al-Nassr in January but the move fell apart at the last minute, despite medicals and personal terms being completed.
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Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface has revealed how a highly lucrative move to Al-Nassr of Saudi Arabia fell through at the last minute, despite completing his medicals and agreeing to personal terms.
The Bayer Leverkusen striker shared his experience during a conversation on The Culture League podcast, noting that he had already packed his bags and given away his designer clothes and shoes, believing the deal was done.
“There was one part that was about money. I’ve had a lot of injuries and I’m still young,” Boniface explained.
“The offer from Saudi Arabia was great, and I started calling family to talk about it.”
The move, reportedly worth €45 million in wages over three years (₦80 billion), would have seen Boniface join a growing list of top players in the Saudi Pro League. Leverkusen had accepted a €70 million transfer offer from Al-Nassr, and everything appeared to be on track — until the club made a late decision to sign Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran instead.
“I packed my bags, we drove to Frankfurt. I was in the hotel praying for the deal to go through,” he said.
“I’d even given away most of my designer clothes and shoes to friends at home.”
Boniface added that he initially considered staying in Europe, with offers also on the table from top Italian clubs. He recounted how his brother initially urged him to choose Italy for the chance to play in the Champions League and possibly the World Cup — but quickly changed his mind after seeing the reported salary online.
“He called me back and said, ‘Are you crazy? Go to Saudi Arabia!’ after someone sent him the offer breakdown on Tunde Ednut’s page.”
Despite the setback, Boniface continues to shine for Leverkusen, contributing to 44 goals (32 goals, 12 assists) since joining in July 2023. His performances have now attracted interest from AC Milan, setting up what could be another major summer move.
