Premier League sides Crystal Palace and Fulham remain interested in Nigerian defender Chibuike Nwaiwu after failing to secure his signature during the summer transfer window, Africafoot can exclusively reveal.
The two English clubs are understood to have maintained their interest in the 22-year-old, who has continued to impress since joining Turkish side Trabzonspor from Austrian club Wolfsberger AC in January.
Reports in the Turkish media have linked both clubs with a possible move for Nwaiwu when the transfer window reopens in January, with the Premier League sides still monitoring his situation.
Africafoot contacted a source close to the situation, who confirmed that the interest from England has not gone away.
“The interest has always been there. The deal did not happen over the summer because of replacement and transfer issues,” the source told Africafoot.
However, it remains unclear whether Trabzonspor would be willing to sanction the defender’s departure midway through the season.
“Everything is with the club, and the player is happy to finish the season, because they value him so much” the source added.
Trabzonspor yet to decide on Nwaiwu’s future
Nwaiwu was close to securing a move to the Premier League during the summer, with Crystal Palace and Fulham both showing interest in his services.
However, an agreement could not be reached, with the clubs reportedly unable to meet Trabzonspor’s valuation of the Nigerian defender.
The Turkish club’s position, alongside the difficulty of securing a suitable replacement, ultimately prevented the transfer from materialising.
Although the January window could provide another opportunity for the interested clubs, Trabzonspor will have the final say on whether the defender is allowed to leave.
Nwaiwu is understood to be comfortable with his current situation and is not pushing for an immediate departure.
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Nwaiwu’s rise at Trabzonspor attracts Premier League attention
Since arriving from Wolfsberger AC in January, Nwaiwu has established himself as an important member of Trabzonspor’s squad.
The Nigerian defender played a role in the club’s Turkish Cup triumph and has maintained his impressive performances during the current campaign.
His physical presence, defensive strength and ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch have made him an attractive prospect for clubs seeking to strengthen their defensive options.
His progress has also been rewarded at international level, with the 22-year-old earning his first call-up and making his senior debut for Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
The development has further raised his profile, with his performances in Turkey putting him on the radar of clubs outside the country.
With Crystal Palace and Fulham continuing to monitor his situation, Nwaiwu could attract renewed Premier League interest in January.
However, any potential move will depend on Trabzonspor’s willingness to negotiate and whether an acceptable offer arrives for the Nigerian international.
