Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface is on the verge of sealing a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, but his teammate Patrik Schick has voiced his concerns about such a switch, Soccernet.football reports.
Boniface, 24, has been absent from Leverkusen training in recent days as negotiations over a potential transfer progress. While the Nigerian forward has made an impact in the Bundesliga, his decision to leave European football at this stage of his career has raised eyebrows.
With Leverkusen reportedly agreeing on terms with Al-Nassr, Boniface appears set to depart, clearing the way for Schick to cement his place as the club’s main striker.
However, the Czech international insists that his mindset remains unchanged, regardless of competition for a starting spot.
“I will continue in the same way as before,” Schick said in a press conference on Tuesday as per Bulinews. “Whether Victor is here or not doesn’t change much. For me, it’s always the same, the same focus. I’ve always concentrated on myself and never looked at others.”
Schick, 29, also made it clear that he has no interest in following Boniface to the Saudi Pro League, believing he still has plenty to offer at the highest level.
“I’m 29 years old, but I still have ambitions to play at the highest level. I’m not thinking about Saudi Arabia at the moment. People are different about these things, but for me personally, it doesn’t seem like the right time for something like that,” he added.
While Schick has enjoyed a strong season, Boniface has struggled with injuries, limiting him to just 15 appearances and eight goals across all competitions. In contrast, Schick has stepped up in his absence, scoring 17 goals in 25 matches, including 13 Bundesliga strikes in just 16 outings.
Leverkusen are currently preparing for a crucial Champions League clash against Sparta Prague, where they have a chance to secure direct qualification to the knockout stages.
However, Boniface’s future remains uncertain, with his potential departure dominating discussions around the club.