Fulham have stepped up their pursuit of Nigerian defender Chibuike Nwaiwu after submitting an improved offer worth €28 million to Trabzonspor for the highly rated centre-back.
The latest proposal includes a €25 million guaranteed fee plus €3 million in performance-related bonuses, following the Premier League club’s earlier €20 million bid, which Trabzonspor rejected. The Turkish side remain determined to keep the 22-year-old unless their valuation of €30-35 million is met.
Nwaiwu has enjoyed an impressive rise since completing a €5.5 million move from Austrian club Wolfsberger during the January transfer window. He quickly became a regular in Trabzonspor’s defence, making 21 appearances across all competitions while contributing three goals and one assist. He also played a key role in Trabzonspor’s 2-1 victory over Konyaspor in the Turkish Cup final, further boosting his reputation as one of the Süper Lig’s standout young defenders.
His performances have attracted interest from several clubs across Europe, including teams in the Premier League, Bundesliga, and Serie A, making him one of Nigeria’s most sought-after defenders this summer.
Fulham are eager to strengthen their backline ahead of the new season and see Nwaiwu as a long-term solution in central defence.
Despite Fulham’s improved bid, Trabzonspor are under no immediate pressure to sell. The Turkish club believe the Nigerian international remains a key part of their project and are prepared to reject offers below their asking price.
Fulham have shown their determination to sign Chibuike Nwaiwu with an improved €28 million offer, but Trabzonspor remain firm on their valuation of the Nigerian defender. With interest continuing to grow across Europe, the coming weeks could prove decisive as the Premier League club decide whether to meet the Turkish side’s asking price or explore other defensive targets before the transfer window closes.
