Why Nwaiwu could stay at Trabzonspor — 2 reasons revealed

Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu could be set to stay at Trabzonspor for at least the 2026-27 campaign amid intense transfer speculation over his future, Afrik-Foot reports.

Nwaiwu’s future has been uncertain throughout the summer, with several clubs showing interest in the Nigerian defender. Premier League sides Fulham and Crystal Palace have both made moves for him, while other clubs across Europe’s major leagues have also been monitoring his situation.

Both English clubs have had bids rejected by the Turkish Cup winners for the 23-year-old, although they remain interested in signing him with only a few days left before the transfer window closes.

The centre-back only moved to Turkey in the winter transfer window but has impressed since his arrival at Trabzonspor. He quickly became an important part of the club’s defence and played a major role as they won the Turkish Cup last season.

Nwaiwu has also carried that form into the new campaign despite the transfer speculation surrounding him, although he missed Trabzonspor’s Europa League play-off second leg against Ferencvaros last Thursday through suspension.

According to Footy-Africa, the Nigerian defender could now be set to remain at the club and play a major role for them this season due to two major reasons.

Trabzonspor’s valuation remains a stumbling block

Trabzonspor have set a price tag of around €30 million to €35 million for Nwaiwu before they will consider sanctioning his departure this summer and a sale in that region would also make the Nigerian defender the most expensive departure in the club’s history.

However, both Fulham and Crystal Palace have submitted bids below Trabzonspor’s valuation, leading to talks over a potential transfer breaking down.

Fulham have even agreed personal terms with Nwaiwu, but they have still been unable to reach an agreement with Trabzonspor because of the significant difference between the two clubs’ valuations.

With the transfer window almost closed, it remains unlikely that Trabzonspor will soften their stance and reduce their asking price.

That could make it difficult for any of the interested clubs to complete a deal, leaving Nwaiwu increasingly likely to remain in Turkey for the new season.

Nwaiwu has not pushed for a move

Another major reason why Nwaiwu could stay at Trabzonspor is that the defender has not asked the club to let him leave this summer.

The 23-year-old remains committed to Trabzonspor, although he is open to a move if the right offer arrives. However, he is not currently pushing for a transfer, which could work in the club’s favour as they look to keep hold of one of their key defenders.

Had Nwaiwu pushed for a move, Trabzonspor could have faced greater pressure to consider his departure. Instead, the Nigerian remains focused on the club and is not forcing the situation.

Staying at Trabzonspor could also benefit Nwaiwu. Rather than moving to a new club and having to adapt to a different environment, he is developing into one of Trabzonspor’s most important players and is likely to continue enjoying a regular starting role when fit and available for selection.

That would allow him to continue his development while playing regularly at a high level. It would also help him remain relevant in the Super Eagles setup, where competition for places is already intense.

For now, Nwaiwu looks set to stay at Trabzonspor, although the remaining days of the transfer window could still change his situation if one of the interested clubs meets the Turkish side’s valuation.

The Nigerian defender is expected to return to action for Trabzonspor on Monday night when they face newly promoted Amedspor, as they look to continue their unbeaten start to the Super Lig season.