
By Bukola Kayode
Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso has revealed that Nigerian striker Victor Boniface will remain in the club despite reports of a possible transfer to Saudi Arabia for the big bucks.
Boniface had been left out of the squad in Leverkusen’s preparations for their 2-0 win over Sparta Prague in the Champions League on Wednesday, and Alonso had said Tuesday it was due to talks with an unnamed club.
The local press had reported the negotiations with Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr, where Cristiano Ronaldo plays, reached advanced stage and it involved a fee of €70 million euros ($73 million).
But Xavi said on Wednesday, “He will train again tomorrow. I believe he is staying with us,” Alonso said when asked about Boniface after the win over Sparta. “So I have to say that I am satisfied, I am happy.”
Alonso said Boniface could play Sunday against TSG Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga and added: “He is comfortable here, so I don’t believe that this is a big stress for him.”
The failed Boniface transfer led to the move to Saudi Arabia for Aston Villa striker Jhon Durán.
Boniface hasn’t played since November because of injury, but had been on the bench for Leverkusen’s last two games before Wednesday. Sarta Prague in the Champions League on Wednesday, and Alonso had said Tuesday it was due to talks with an unnamed club.
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