Bayer Leverkusen manager, Xabi Alonso is delighted to keep forward Victor Boniface at the club, DAILY POST reports. Boniface was close to sealing a big money move to Al Nassr, before the Saudi club opted to sign Aston Villa striker,

Spanish center Mario Hermoso embarks on a new adventure in his career after a brief stint with AS Roma. The 29-year-old defender will join Bayer Leverkusen on loan until the end of the season, meeting a specific request from coach Xabi Alonso who is looking to strengthen the defense for the crucial phase of the season.

The reason the deal has not yet been finalised is that Al Nassr are negotiating with Aston Villa for Colombian striker Jhon Duran. The Athletic reports that if Villa receives a fee of €80m for Duran and a move suits all parties, then a move would be possible.

Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso said Wednesday that Nigerian striker Victor Boniface is set to stay at the club following reports of a possible transfer to Saudi Arabia.

Striker Victor Boniface will remain at Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen and not move to Saudi Arabia, coach Xabi Alonso said on Wednesday night. "He will train with us again tomorrow and we will talk.