Nigeria defender Chibuike Nwaiwu has completed his much-anticipated move to Turkish giants Trabzonspor after successfully passing his medical on Wednesday.
Rivers United assistant coach Olanrewaju Daniel, popularly known as “Yema” in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has stated that the move marks a major step forward in the player’s career.
“He has signed a four-year deal with the club for about €9 million,” Yema said. “There were a few clubs interested in him, but Trabzonspor were the ones who showed how much they really wanted him. He met the coaching staff, and I am very happy for him. He has worked extremely hard for this opportunity. His dedication and commitment were very clear to me when I worked with him at Enyimba.”
Yema, who played a key role in Nwaiwu’s breakthrough at Enyimba, also highlighted the player’s versatility:
“Nwaiwu can play as a defensive midfielder and as a centre-back, but since moving to Austria, he has been used mainly in central defence for Wolfsberger.
“The Austrian club are also pleased because this deal makes him their record transfer in the club’s history, which is a positive outcome for them as well,” he added.
The 22-year-old centre-back had been on the radar of several European clubs, particularly from France, Belgium, and Germany, but Trabzonspor eventually won the race for his signature.
View this post on Instagram
Austrian side Wolfsberger had initially demanded €10 million for Nwaiwu, who was valued at around €6 million. However, both clubs were able to reach an agreement, with the Turkish outfit securing the Nigerian’s services for a fee reported to be close to €9 million.
Nwaiwu has already arrived in Turkey and is expected to begin training with the first team as he links up with fellow Nigerian international Anthony Nwakaeme at the club.
Nwaiwu featured in 12 Austrian Bundesliga matches for Wolfsberger this season, delivering consistent performances that have now earned him a move to the seven-time Turkish champions.
