LEVERKUSEN, Germany — On Wednesday, Bayer Leverkusen’s head coach, Xabi Alonso, confirmed that Nigerian forward Victor Boniface is expected to remain with the club amid speculation regarding a possible transfer to Saudi Arabia.

Boniface was notably absent from the squad during Leverkusen’s 2-0 victory against Sparta Prague in the Champions League, which led Alonso to explain that the forward’s exclusion was due to ongoing discussions with an undisclosed club.

Reports from German media indicated that the negotiations were centered around Al-Nassr, the team featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, with a proposed transfer fee estimated at 70 million euros (approximately $73 million).

Following the win against Sparta, Alonso stated, “He will train again tomorrow. I believe he is staying with us,” when pressed for details about Boniface. He added, “So I have to say that I am satisfied, I am happy.”

Alonso also mentioned that Boniface might make his return to the pitch in the Bundesliga clash against Hoffenheim on Sunday, reassuring reporters, “He is comfortable here so I don’t believe that this is a big stress for him.”

The apparent failure of Boniface’s transfer could pave the way for Aston Villa’s striker Jhon Duran, who has also been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, particularly Al-Nassr. Duran was an unused substitute during Villa’s 4-2 win against Celtic on Wednesday.

Boniface has been sidelined since November due to injury but was present on the bench for Leverkusen’s last two matches before facing Sparta Prague.

Earlier on Wednesday, Leverkusen also announced the acquisition of midfielder Emiliano Buendia on loan from Aston Villa, further indicating the club’s focus on strengthening their squad.