Trabzonspor have made it clear that Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu is not for sale unless interested clubs meet their €30 million valuation, dealing a major blow to Premier League sides chasing the Nigerian this summer.
The Turkish club has rejected approaches from Fulham, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace, while Serie A champions Napoli have also been linked with the versatile defender following his outstanding performances since arriving in Turkey earlier this year.
Fulham appeared to be leading the race for Nwaiwu after the 23-year-old reportedly agreed personal terms with the London club last month.
However, negotiations stalled after Trabzonspor turned down Fulham’s opening €20 million offer before also rejecting an improved proposal worth €25 million plus an additional €3 million in performance-related bonuses.
Chibuike Nwaiwu celebrates during his time with Trabzonspor after helping the Turkish club win the domestic cup, with the Black Sea outfit insisting they will only sanction his departure if their €30 million valuation is met. Photocredit: Chibuike Nwaiwu/FB
Despite continued interest from other clubs, Trabzonspor remain unwilling to negotiate below their asking price.
Club president Ertuğrul Doğan reaffirmed the Turkish side’s position, insisting none of the offers received reflected the player’s true value.
“The offers we received for Chibuike Nwaiwu were far below our expectations. Under these circumstances, we are absolutely not considering selling him.”
He added: “The offers were insufficient; the player is staying with the team.”
Nwaiwu has enjoyed a remarkable rise since joining Trabzonspor from Austrian Bundesliga side Wolfsberger AC in January 2026 for a reported fee of around €5.5 million.
The Nigerian centre-back quickly established himself as a firstteam regular, playing a key role as Trabzonspor lifted the Turkish Cup during the second half of the season.
Chibuike Nwaiwu and Team mates at the 2026 Unity Cup tournament in London. Photocredit Chibuike Nwaiwu/FB
His consistent performances have dramatically increased his market value, with the club now seeking more than five times what they paid just months ago.
Nwaiwu’s ability to operate comfortably as both a central defender and a defensive midfielder has made him one of the most sought-after Nigerian defenders in Europe.
He featured in 21 competitive matches during his first six months with Trabzonspor, scoring three goals and providing one assist while helping the club enjoy a successful domestic campaign.
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A move to the Premier League is believed to appeal to the defender as he looks to further cement his place in the Super Eagles ahead of upcoming international competitions.
Although Trabzonspor’s stance has complicated negotiations, interest in Nwaiwu is expected to remain strong before the transfer window closes.
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However, the Turkish club are standing firm, with Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, Fulham and Napoli all likely to return only if they are prepared to match Trabzonspor’s €30 million valuation for one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising defensive talents.
