Fulham transfers: Key condition for Premier League side to sign Chibuike Nwaiwu

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Premier League side Fulham are closing in on the signing of Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu from Trabzonspor, with just one key issue left to resolve before the deal can be completed, Afrik-Foot reports.

Nwaiwu has been one of the most sought-after Nigerian players in the transfer window. Fulham are leading the race for his signature, although clubs from Serie A and fellow English side West Ham have also shown strong interest.

The Nigerian defender has enjoyed a remarkable rise since joining Trabzonspor from Austrian side Wolfsberger AC during the winter transfer window.

His outstanding performances quickly established him as one of the Turkish club’s most reliable players, playing a key role in their Turkish Cup triumph and attracting interest from several clubs across Europe.

Nigeria defender Chibuike Nwaiwu challenges a Jamaican man, Dajaune Brown
Chibuike Nwaiwu (6). Copyright IMAGO

According to Foot Mercato, Fulham have already reached an agreement on personal terms with Nwaiwu, leaving just one crucial detail before the move can be finalized.

Key condition for Nwaiwu to become Fulham’s new addition

With personal terms now agreed, Fulham’s only remaining task is to reach an agreement with Trabzonspor over a transfer fee.

The Turkish club have placed a valuation of between €30 million and €35 million on the defender and are determined not to lower their asking price.

Fulham target Chibuike Nwaiwu
Chibuike Nwaiwu. Copyright: Imago

Fulham have already seen two bids rejected. Their opening offer of around €20 million was turned down, while an improved €28 million proposal was also rejected by Trabzonspor.

The Black Sea Storm are holding out for a fee that would represent a new club-record sale and would also make Nwaiwu the most expensive outgoing transfer in Turkish football history.

Fulham will now hope to strike an agreement as quickly as possible so the defender can join the squad before the start of pre-season.

The Premier League club are keen to integrate Nwaiwu into the team ahead of next season, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the futures of two of their senior centre-backs.

Paul Onuachu, Anthony Nwakaeme and Chibuike Nwaiwu at Trabzonspor
Paul Onuachu, Anthony Nwakaeme and Nwaiwu at Trabzonspor. (Credit: AF NG)

Arriving during pre-season would give the Nigerian international enough time to settle into his new surroundings, adapt to Fulham’s style of play and gradually establish himself in the team.

Once both clubs reach an agreement, Nwaiwu will be on his way to the Premier League to begin the next chapter of his career.

<!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

Ayomide Oguntimehin

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Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.