Just months after joining Trabzonspor from Austrian side Wolfsberger AC, Nigerian defender Chibuike Nwaiwu could be on the move again, Footy-Africa can exclusively confirm.
The centre-back has been outstanding for the Turkish side since completing his €5.5 million move to the former Turkish champions in January, ending his first campaign in Turkey on a high note.
His performances have attracted interest from several clubs in Turkey and across Europe, with English side Fulham reportedly among the frontrunners for his signature.
According to reports, the Cottagers submitted a bid worth €20 million, but the offer was rejected by Trabzonspor.
A source close to the player told Footy-Africa.com that Fulham’s interest is genuine, but they are not the only club monitoring the 22-year-old defender.
“I can confirm that Fulham have expressed interest in him, but the figure being reported in the media is not entirely accurate. Regardless, Trabzonspor were not willing to do a deal,” the source revealed. “But they are not the only team that have made inquiries about him. There are about three clubs. West Ham are one of them, and they are looking to strengthen their squad.”
Chibuike Nwaiwu’s rise puts Trabzonspor on alert, Bundesliga club in the mix
“There is also Bayer Leverkusen in Germany, who have been tracking him since his time in Austria. They remain interested in him. Another German club has also asked about him. It is Werder Bremen.”
“I do not think Trabzonspor want to sell him at this stage because they want to challenge for the league title next season and see him as an important part of their plans. Unless one of these clubs comes in with an offer between €30 million and €35 million, I believe he will remain in Turkey,” he concluded.
Nwaiwu enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in the Turkish Süper Lig. Since arriving in January, he has made 21 appearances for Trabzonspor, scoring three goals and providing one assist, an impressive return for a central defender and among the best attacking contributions by a player in his position in the league.
