Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor have turned down a second bid from Premier League club Fulham for Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu, insisting they will not sanction a sale below their valuation of the highly-rated centre-back.
According to Turkish outlet Fanatik, Fulham’s improved offer of approximately €28 million—comprising a guaranteed €25 million and an additional €3 million in performance-related add-ons—has been rejected by the Black Sea Storm.
The Turkish club are holding out for a fee between €30 million and €35 million for the 22-year-old Nigerian, having previously dismissed an opening €20 million bid from the London side last month.
Nwaiwu joined Trabzonspor from Austrian club Wolfsberger AC in January and swiftly established himself as a first-team regular.
His impact was immediate and significant, as he played a pivotal role in helping the club secure a third-place finish in the Super Lig, qualification for next season’s UEFA Europa League, and Turkish Cup glory.
The young defender’s impressive performances have attracted interest from several other European clubs, including West Ham United, Napoli, Bayer Leverkusen, and Leeds United.
However, Fulham are understood to have identified Nwaiwu as their leading defensive target ahead of the new Premier League campaign and are expected to return with a further offer.
Should Trabzonspor’s valuation eventually be met, the transfer would become the most expensive sale in Turkish Super Lig history, surpassing the €30 million Brighton paid Fenerbahce for Ferdi Kadioglu in 2024.
It would also make Nwaiwu the fourth most expensive Nigerian player of all time, further cementing his status as one of Africa’s most promising defensive talents.
Trabzonspor are under no pressure to sell, with the defender tied to a long-term contract and yet to actively push for a move. The Turkish club’s strong bargaining position reflects their determination to maximize value for a player who has become indispensable to their squad.
Fulham, however, remain undeterred and are expected to submit a third bid as they intensify their pursuit of the centre-back before the new season gets underway.
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