Victor Boniface Explains Why He Almost Joined Al Nassr in Mega Saudi Move
Victor Boniface has opened up on why he nearly left Bayer Leverkusen for Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr, revealing that the money on offer was simply too hard to ignore.
The Super Eagles striker was set to become the highest-paid Nigerian footballer, earning a staggering €15 million per year, compared to the €2 million he currently receives in Germany. Al Nassr also offered Bayer Leverkusen a whopping €70 million transfer fee, making the deal appealing for both the player and the club.
Speaking on The Culture League podcast, Boniface admitted that his injury history and the financial security played a big role in his decision.
“I have been injured so many times. If I go and play two, three seasons…the money was a lot. I agreed because it was also about the club – they wanted the money too,” Boniface explained.
The 24-year-old even prepared for the move.
“I was ready to go. I packed my bags, gave away my designer clothes and shoes to friends, and the plane was waiting,” he said.
But despite being on the verge of sealing the transfer, the move collapsed at the very last minute.
Had the deal gone through, Boniface would have joined Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane at Al Nassr, competing in the fast-growing Saudi Pro League. For now, he remains at Bayer Leverkusen under new manager Erik ten Hag, but the striker admits the experience showed how quickly football decisions can change.
With offers like these becoming common in football, it remains to be seen if Boniface will resist the lure of Saudi Arabia in the future.
