Fulham close in on Nwaiwu

Fulham is reportedly close to signing Nigerian international defender Chibuike Nwaiwu, having reached an agreement on personal terms. However, the Premier League club must still negotiate a transfer fee with Turkish side Trabzonspor, which has rejected two bids for the 22-year-old.

The latest offer from Fulham was understood to be worth €28 million, comprising €25 million guaranteed and €3 million in add-ons. This improved bid followed an initial offer of €20 million, both of which failed to meet Trabzonspor's valuation. The Turkish club is reportedly seeking between €30 million and €35 million for the center-back.

Nwaiwu, who joined Trabzonspor from Austrian club Wolfsberger AC in January 2026, has impressed since his arrival. He has made 21 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals, including a winner against league champions Galatasaray. His performances were instrumental in Trabzonspor's Turkish Cup triumph and have earned him three senior caps for Nigeria.

Despite initial openness to staying in Turkey, Nwaiwu has reportedly informed Trabzonspor, through his representatives, that his preference is to continue his career in the Premier League. The potential transfer has also attracted interest from Napoli and West Ham United. Trabzonspor stands to make a significant profit on Nwaiwu, whom they signed for approximately €6 million just months ago, with a sale above €30 million set to become a club record.