Victor Boniface: 5 things to know about Al-Nassr N94bn target

Nigerian sensational striker Victor Boniface is making headlines following reports that Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr are willing to spend big to sign the Ondo-born star, who currently plays for Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen.

The 24-year-old forward from Akure, Nigeria, has rapidly ascended the ranks of professional football. Playing for Bayer 04 Leverkusen, his journey is marked by resilience, talent, and a unique playing style.

Boniface, who has netted eight goals in 15 appearances for Xabi Alonso’s side during the 2024/25 season, was previously linked with a high-profile move to the Premier League. However, recent reports suggest that Al-Nassr have moved ahead in the race for his signature. According to German journalist Florian Plettenberg, a deal has been finalized for the Nigerian international to join the Saudi Pro League club.

Al-Nassr are expected to pay over N64 billion (€60 million) transfer fee, while Boniface will earn approximately N24 billion (€15 million) net salary per season. Reports also indicate that Boniface has already passed his medical, with an official announcement imminent.

Here are five facts about Victor Boniface, the barracks-born striker, who dominated the Bundesliga and is now set to make waves in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr.

Rising from Tragedy to Triumph
Victor Boniface was born on December 23, 2000, in Akure, Nigeria, and currently plays for Bayer 04 Leverkusen. His journey to stardom has been shaped by resilience, overcoming personal tragedy, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence on the pitch.

Boniface lost his mother at a young age in an accident, a traumatic experience that temporarily derailed his football dreams. Raised by his grandparents in a military barracks in Ondo State, he found discipline and motivation that helped shape his career.

Football Journey and Career Breakthrough
His professional journey began at Real Sapphire Academy in Lagos, where his outstanding performances earned him a move to FK Bodø/Glimt in 2019. He later played for Royale Union St. Gilloise before joining Bayer Leverkusen in 2023.

Boniface made history in the UEFA Champions League preliminary rounds on July 6, 2022, scoring a hat-trick for Bodø/Glimt in a 3-0 victory over Klaksvik. He became the first player since 2007 to achieve this feat for a Norwegian club in European competitions.

Bundesliga Success and Personal Struggles
At Bayer Leverkusen, Boniface quickly established himself as a key player under Xabi Alonso. His remarkable debut season saw him win the Bundesliga Rookie of the Month award for four consecutive months (August-November 2023), an unprecedented achievement since the award’s inception in 2016.

His contributions were vital in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title-winning campaign, and he earned a place in the Bundesliga Team of the Season 2023/24.

Despite his on-field success, Boniface has been open about his struggles with depression. In an interview, he admitted to losing interest in football and adopting an unhealthy lifestyle before regaining focus and determination.

Setbacks and Resilience
Boniface was named in Nigeria’s squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) but was forced to withdraw due to a muscle injury suffered in training. This setback denied him the chance to represent his country on Africa’s biggest stage.

In October 2024, he was involved in a car accident after Leverkusen’s 2-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. Although his car sustained significant damage, he escaped with minor injuries. He later expressed gratitude on social media, writing: “God is the greatest.”

Style of Play and Impact
Known for his strength, dribbling, finishing, and hold-up play, Boniface thrives as a dynamic forward. His ability to combine technical skill with physicality makes him a constant threat in attack.

With six goals and one assist in the current Bundesliga season, he remains a crucial player for Leverkusen, as they continue to dominate both domestically and in Europe.

From the barracks of Ondo State to the heights of the Bundesliga, Victor Boniface’s story is one of perseverance, triumph over adversity, and an unwavering commitment to his footballing dreams.