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Crystal Palace have become the latest Premier League club to show interest in Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu, Footynaija reports.
The Eagles interest adds fresh competition to the race for the Trabzonspor centre-back this summer who has been on the radar of Fulham for months.
Nwaiwu has enjoyed a rapid rise since joining the Turkish club in the middle of last season. His calm style of defending, strength in the air and reliable performances quickly made him an important player for Trabzonspor.
His impressive form also earned him his first Super Eagles call-up, and he marked the occasion by making his senior debut in Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Iran in March 2026. Head coach Eric Chelle rates Nwaiwu highly and a move to the Premier League could see him seal his place as Nigeria’s long-term replacement for the aging Semi Ajayi.
Fulham remain serious contenders for the 22-year-old and are reported to have agreed personal terms with the Nigerian. However, both clubs have not yet settled on a transfer fee, leaving the deal unfinished.
Transfer expert Florian Plettenberg reports that Crystal Palace have now added Nwaiwu to their shortlist as they search for defensive reinforcements. The Eagles are expected to replace Maxence Lacroix, who is closing in on a move to Chelsea.
Palace are still believed to prefer Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima, but if that deal falls through, they could turn their full attention to Nwaiwu.
With interest from more than one Premier League club, the Nigerian defender could soon be set for a move to England before the new season begins.
