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.

Boniface returned from injury last Saturday but was on the bench for Leverkusen's 2-2 draw with RB Leipzig, and was not named in the squad for Alonso's side's routine victory over lowly Sparta

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.