Chibuike Nwaiwu to Premier League: The 2 clubs interested in Super Eagles star

Chibuike Nwaiwu had his Premier League dream squashed in the summer but the Super Eagles defender could finally make that move in January.

According to reports from Turkey, Fulham and Crystal Palace have not shelved their interest in signing Nwaiwu from Trabzonspor. Both Premier League clubs are believed to be keeping tabs on the Nigerian defender ahead of the January transfer window.

The 23-year-old has impressed in Turkey, where his performances have attracted interest from England. Fulham are reportedly considering a fresh bid for the centre-back after failing to sign him during the summer.

According to Turkish outlet A Spor, the London club are weighing up another attempt to bring Nwaiwu to Craven Cottage in January.

Crystal Palace are also interested in the defender and could challenge Fulham for his signature.

Fulham and Palace prepare fresh move for Chibuike Nwaiwu

Fulham tried to sign Nwaiwu during the summer transfer window but failed to agree a fee with Trabzonspor.

Reports at the time suggested the English club made several bids, but the Turkish side refused to sell. Trabzonspor were reportedly demanding between €30 million and €35 million for the defender.

Fulham could return with an improved offer in January as they look to strengthen a defence that has conceded ten goals in eight league games this term.

Crystal Palace could be even more desperate to sign Nwaiwu, with the club struggling in the opening weeks of the campaign.

Palace have the worst defence in the Premier League, shipping 20 goals from nine games while registering two wins and six defeats. That record leaves them in the relegation zone already with only Sunderland and Nottingham Forest below them. Defensive reinforcement will be one of the priority at the club heading into the winter.

A no-nonsense defender who enjoys the duels and tackles, Nwaiwu is flourishing again in the Turkish Super Lig. The former Heartland and Enyimba star has started all nine of Trabzonspor’s league matches this season, scoring once. He has also recorded a passing accuracy of 88.7 per cent.

It is little wonder that Premier League clubs are convinced he can thrive in the English top-tier.