Trabzonspor rejects Fulham's improved bid for defender Nwaiwu

Turkish Super Lig club Trabzonspor has turned down a second offer from Premier League side Fulham for Nigerian defender Chibuike Nwaiwu. The Turkish club insists on receiving their valuation for the player, reportedly between €30 million and €35 million.

Fulham's improved bid, estimated at €28 million with €3 million in add-ons, was rejected by Trabzonspor. This follows an earlier €20 million offer that was also dismissed last month. Nwaiwu has become a key player for Trabzonspor since joining from Wolfsberger AC in January, helping the team secure third place in the league, qualify for the UEFA Europa League, and win the Turkish Cup.

The 22-year-old's impressive performances have attracted interest from several other European clubs, including West Ham United, Napoli, Bayer Leverkusen, and Leeds United. However, Fulham appears to have identified Nwaiwu as their primary defensive target for the upcoming season.

If the transfer proceeds at Trabzonspor's asking price, it would become the most expensive sale in the history of the Turkish Super Lig, surpassing the previous record. It would also position Nwaiwu among the four most expensive Nigerian players ever sold.

Trabzonspor is not under pressure to sell, as Nwaiwu is under a long-term contract and has not requested a transfer. Nevertheless, Fulham is expected to make another offer as they continue their pursuit of the center-back ahead of the new Premier League campaign.