Super Eagles transfer: Why Fulham’s move for Nwaiwu is now in serious danger

Mohamed Salah’s stunning move to Trabzonspor has made Fulham’s pursuit of Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu much more difficult, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Egyptian captain completed a free transfer to Trabzonspor on August 6, signing a two-year contract that runs until the end of the 2027/28 season. The 34-year-old will reportedly earn €17 million per season, made up of a €10 million salary and a €7 million annual signing-on payment. His agreement also includes 20 percent of the revenue from merchandise sold under his name, while he will wear the club’s famous No. 10 shirt after Ernest Muci gave up the jersey out of respect.

Salah arrives after ending a remarkable nine-year stay at Liverpool, where he scored 257 goals in 442 appearances and won both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League. Although clubs from Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer showed strong interest, the Egyptian chose to remain in Europe and strengthen Trabzonspor ahead of their UEFA Europa League qualifying campaign.

His arrival has also changed the transfer picture surrounding Nigerian centre-back Nwaiwu, who is also on Tottenham’s radar.

Salah signing strengthens Trabzonspor’s position over Nwaiwu

Fulham have been trying to sign the 23-year-old defender as manager Álvaro Arbeloa looks to rebuild his defence following Issa Diop’s departure.

The Premier League club already agreed personal terms with Nwaiwu on a proposed four-year contract. They also reportedly submitted an improved offer worth €28 million, including €25 million guaranteed and another €3 million in add-ons. Trabzonspor, however, rejected the proposal.

The Turkish club continue to value the Nigerian international between €30 million and €35 million and have refused to lower their asking price. Salah’s arrival has only strengthened that position.

Landing one of Africa’s greatest footballers is expected to bring huge commercial benefits through shirt sales, sponsorships and worldwide attention. That financial boost means Trabzonspor no longer feel any pressure to sell one of their most valuable defenders.

The club’s ambitions have also grown. After finishing third in last season’s Turkish Süper Lig, Trabzonspor now believe they can challenge for the league title while also making a strong run in the UEFA Europa League.

Keeping their defensive leader has therefore become a major priority. Nwaiwu could now line up alongside Salah and fellow Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu as Trabzonspor prepare for another busy season in domestic and European football.

Fulham face a difficult decision as transfer stalls

The latest update from Turkey suggests the transfer has reached a standstill.

Speaking before Salah’s official unveiling, 61saat Sports Director Hasan Tüncel explained why Trabzonspor have become even more determined to keep the Nigerian defender.

“There was an offer from Fulham for Chibuike Nwaiwu. They couldn’t meet Trabzonspor’s demands. Trabzonspor’s goal is not to sell this player. It’s impossible to sell Chibuike Nwaiwu when you’ve already acquired Salah. As of now, Trabzonspor doesn’t want to sell the player. Trabzonspor has two offers on the table.”

Nwaiwu is understood to be interested in testing himself in the Premier League, believing regular football in England would improve his chances of becoming a permanent fixture in the Super Eagles.

Fulham now face a difficult choice. They can return with a significantly improved offer that meets Trabzonspor’s valuation, or risk missing out on one of Nigeria’s brightest defensive talents.

The delay has also attracted interest from fellow Premier League clubs Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace, who are keeping a close watch on the situation. Unless Fulham increase their bid substantially, Salah’s arrival may prove to be the moment that ended their hopes of bringing Nwaiwu to Craven Cottage this summer.