Fulham are continuing negotiations to sign Nigerian defender Chibuike Nwaiwu, but a significant difference in valuation with Trabzonspor is threatening to delay a potential summer transfer, according to Footy-Africa‘s report.
The Premier League club remain keen on the 22-year-old centre-back, although Footy-Africa understands that the two clubs have yet to agree on a transfer fee despite ongoing discussions.
Fulham are reported to have tabled an offer worth around €18 million, while Trabzonspor are demanding closer to €30 million before considering the sale of one of their most valuable players.
Sources close to the negotiations told Footy-Africa that talks remain active and Nwaiwu is hopeful an agreement can eventually be reached. The defender is believed to be interested in a move to Craven Cottage but is not expected to push for an exit while negotiations continue.
Nwaiwu has enjoyed a remarkable rise since joining Trabzonspor from Nigerian club Enyimba for €7 million in January. His impressive performances have quickly established him as a key figure in the Turkish side’s defence and significantly increased his market value.
With four years remaining on his current contract, Trabzonspor are in a strong negotiating position and are under no pressure to sell unless their valuation is met.
Fulham are also facing competition from elsewhere in the Premier League. Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Tottenham Hotspur are all understood to be monitoring the Nigeria defender as they assess defensive reinforcements before the transfer window closes.
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Despite the growing interest, Fulham remain determined to complete a deal and are expected to continue talks with Trabzonspor in the coming days.
Unless the London club improve their initial proposal, however, negotiations are likely to remain at a standstill, with Trabzonspor unwilling to lower their asking price for one of the club’s standout young talents.
As discussions continue, Nwaiwu’s future is expected to remain one of the transfer stories to watch, with Fulham hoping they can bridge the financial gap and secure the Nigerian defender before the start of the new season.
