Super Eagles: Crystal Palace eye Nwaiwu – two key reasons behind interest

Premier League club Crystal Palace have entered the race to sign Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu ahead of the new season, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigerian defender has been strongly linked with a move to fellow Premier League side Fulham throughout the summer. The Cottagers have already agreed personal terms with the 23-year-old, with negotiations over a transfer fee with Trabzonspor remaining the only major hurdle.

Nwaiwu has enjoyed a remarkable rise since joining the Turkish club earlier this year. The Super Eagles star has quickly established himself as one of Trabzonspor’s most reliable defenders and has become a regular starter in the heart of their backline.

However, fresh reports suggest Crystal Palace have now joined the race and are ready to challenge Fulham for his signature and there are several reasons that have made the Super Eagles defender an attractive option for the South London club.

Nwaiwu is seen as the ideal replacement for Maxence Lacroix

Crystal Palace were not actively looking to strengthen their defence earlier in the transfer window, but that changed after Chelsea stepped up their pursuit of Maxence Lacroix.

The Blues are reportedly closing in on a £52 million deal for the French defender. If Lacroix leaves, Palace would be left with another major gap at the back, having already lost Marc Guehi to Manchester City just a few months ago.

Losing two experienced central defenders in such a short period would force Palace into the transfer market, making the search for a quality replacement a priority. That is where Nwaiwu fits the profile.

The Super Eagles defender has impressed with his defensive performances at Trabzonspor. He is dominant in one-on-one situations and possesses the strength needed to cope with the demands of the Premier League.

He is also a major aerial threat at both ends of the pitch. His ability to defend set pieces while also posing a danger from dead-ball situations makes him an attractive option for Palace as they prepare for next season.

Super Eagles star is a long-term option for Palace’s rebuild

Another key reason behind Crystal Palace’s interest is Nwaiwu’s age and long-term potential. At just 23, the Super Eagles defender has many years ahead of him and could become a mainstay of Palace’s defence for seasons to come.

The Conference League winners are also entering a new phase following the departures of several important players in recent years, as well as former manager Oliver Glasner, who left at the end of last season.

Pierre Sage has since taken over after leaving French side Lens. The French coach has built a reputation for developing young players and Nwaiwu fits the type of profile Palace are now targeting.

Despite Palace’s interest, Fulham remain firmly in the race and the Eagles will have to move quickly if they want to secure the Nigerian’s signature.

Trabzonspor value Nwaiwu at between €30 million and €35 million and whichever club is willing to meet that asking price could win the race for one of Nigeria’s most sought-after defenders this summer.

Should Crystal Palace match Trabzonspor’s valuation, Nwaiwu could be set for the next chapter of his career in the Premier League with the South London club.