Trabzonspor Turn Down Palace’s ₦47bn Bid for Super Eagles Defender Nwaiwu
Trabzonspor have rejected a reported €30 million (about ₦47 billion) offer from Crystal Palace for Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu as the Turkish club continue to hold firm on their valuation of the Nigerian centre-back.
Nwaiwu has attracted considerable attention since moving to Trabzonspor from Wolfsberger in January.
Despite arriving midway through the season, the 23-year-old quickly became an important figure in the club’s defence and helped them secure the Turkish Cup.
Trabzonspor defeated Konyaspor 2-1 in the final to end the campaign with silverware, with Nwaiwu playing a significant role during the club’s successful run.
His performances have subsequently attracted interest from several European clubs, with Premier League sides Fulham and Crystal Palace among those showing the strongest interest.
According to reports from Turkey, Palace recently tested Trabzonspor’s resolve with an offer worth up to €30 million, but the Turkish Cup winners turned it down.
Trabzonspor are understood to value Nwaiwu between €30 million and €35 million and appear unwilling to sanction his departure unless their financial demands are met.
Palace’s interest comes as the club look to rebuild their defence following the departures of Maxence Lacroix to Chelsea and Marc Guehi to Manchester City.
The need for defensive reinforcements has made Nwaiwu an appealing option for the London club, particularly given his age and impressive progress since joining Trabzonspor.
Fulham, meanwhile, remain firmly in the race. The Cottagers have reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with the Nigerian defender and are now attempting to negotiate a transfer fee with Trabzonspor.
The Turkish club’s latest decision means Palace may have to return with an improved offer if they are to stand a chance of signing the defender.
For Nwaiwu, the coming weeks could determine whether he begins a new chapter in the Premier League or continues his development in Turkey.
Should neither Palace nor Fulham meet Trabzonspor’s valuation, the Nigerian is expected to remain with the club for another season, where he would be expected to play a key role as Trabzonspor pursue the Turkish Super Lig title.
