Fulham have reached an agreement on personal terms with Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu but must still convince Trabzonspor to sanction the move after the Turkish club rejected two bids for the Nigerian international.
The Premier League side are reportedly prepared to sign the 22-year-old on a contract until 2030, but negotiations have stalled over Trabzonspor’s valuation.
Fulham’s opening €20m bid was rejected before an improved offer worth €28m, including €25m guaranteed and €3m in add-ons, also failed to meet the Turkish club’s demands.
Trabzonspor are understood to be holding out for between €30m and €35m for the centre-back, who has also attracted interest from Napoli and West Ham United.
Nwaiwu, who was initially open to remaining in Turkey, has reportedly informed the club through his representatives that his preference is to continue his career in the Premier League.
Nwaiwu joined Trabzonspor from Austrian side Wolfsberger AC in January 2026 and enjoyed a remarkable rise, establishing himself as a first-team regular with 21 appearances in all competitions.
The 1.93m defender scored three goals, including the winner against league champions Galatasaray, and played a key role in the club’s Turkish Cup triumph, performances that also earned him three senior caps for Nigeria.
Trabzonspor’s firm stance is fuelled by the prospect of a record-breaking sale. Having signed the defender for around €6m just months ago, the Turkish side stand to make a huge profit if Fulham meet their asking price, with any deal above €30m set to become the biggest transfer sale in the club’s history.
Fulham are expected to return with an improved offer as they step up efforts to land one of Nigeria’s most sought-after young defenders.
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