Fulham have intensified their pursuit of Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu, but Trabzonspor remain unwilling to lower their asking price for the Nigerian centre-back during the summer transfer window.
The Premier League club have reportedly returned with an improved offer worth more than €20 million after an earlier €15 million bid failed to convince the Turkish side. However, Trabzonspor are still holding out for a fee in the region of €30-35 million before considering a sale.
Nwaiwu has become one of Trabzonspor’s most valuable assets since arriving in Turkey. The 23-year-old made an immediate impact during the second half of last season, scoring three goals in 16 Turkish Süper Lig appearances after joining the club in January. His performances helped raise his profile and attracted interest from clubs across Europe, including Fulham.
Despite Fulham’s improved proposal, Trabzonspor have rejected the latest approach due to the significant difference between the two clubs’ valuations.
The Turkish outfit believe Nwaiwu’s market value continues to rise and are determined to secure the best possible deal if they eventually agree to part ways with the defender.
Reports from Turkey indicate that Trabzonspor are not completely shutting the door on future negotiations. Instead, they expect the transfer saga to continue throughout the summer as Fulham weigh up another move.
The London club remain keen to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new Premier League season and view Nwaiwu as a long-term investment.
With several weeks remaining in the transfer window, Fulham could return with a higher bid in an effort to test Trabzonspor’s resolve once again.
Meanwhile, Trabzonspor have already started assessing potential defensive reinforcements should Nwaiwu eventually leave the club.
The coming months could prove decisive, with both sides currently locked in a transfer standoff. Fulham are pushing to complete the signing, while Trabzonspor remain focused on maximising the value of one of their most sought-after players.
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