Sports News of Thursday, 21 August 2025

Source: www.soccernet.ng

Boniface’s Milan move wrecks transfer hopes of Manchester United forward

Victor Boniface Victor Boniface

Super Eagles and Bayer 04 Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface is edging closer towards an AC Milan move after talks advanced in the last 48 hours, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 24-year-old moved to the Bay Arena from Union Saint-Gilloise in the summer of 2023, and was an instant hit in his first season, winning the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal titles while Xabi Alonso‘s side remained unbeaten.

Boniface's second season at Leverkusen was a little less impactful as he suffered from injuries and Patrick Schick shined in the absence of the Nigerian centre-forward.

Die Werkself have signed Ernest Poku, another youngster backed to shine at Leverkusen by Erik Ten Hag, which signalled a reduction in playing time for Boniface.

Boniface is now set to join AC Milan on a season-long loan with the option to buy for €30m included in the deal.

Manchester United forward, Rasmus Hojlund, has been a big miss since joining the Red Devils from Atalanta in 2023, scoring 26 goals in 95 games across all competitions.

Ruben Amorim's side have signed Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig this summer as they look to resolve their goalscoring problems from last season.

The Portuguese manager has made it clear that Hojlund is no longer a part of his plans, and didn't include the Danish striker in the squad that lost to Arsenal on the opening gameweek of the English Premier League.
The 22-year-old was linked with a move to AC Milan, but it appears he's no longer a part of the chase, with Boniface set to join the seven-time UEFA Champions League winners.

Hojlund now faces a complicated future as he needs to get playing time, but suitors aren't coming forth with suitable offers.

Redemption for the forsaken Manchester United striker?
According to The Sun, a move to the Serie A is still possible for the ex-Atalanta man. Hojlund could still seal a loan to Napoli, where he could link up with former United team-mate Scott McTominay.

Antonio Conte's side are in the market for a new striker after Romelu Lukaku suffered a thigh injury that could see him sidelined until December.

Hojlund declared his intention to stay and fight for his place at United earlier this month following two inconsistent seasons at Old Trafford.

However, the decision to omit him from the squad against the Gunners may have sent a message that he will get no game time if he stays at the club.