Turkish Super Lig giants Trabzonspor have reportedly set an asking price for Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu amid growing exit speculations ahead of the summer transfer window, Footynaija.com reports.
Nwaiwu only joined the Black Sea Storm from Austrian side Wolfsberger AC in January, but he has wasted little time establishing himself as one of the club’s most important players.
The 22-year-old slotted seamlessly into Trabzonspor’s backline, contributing three goals and one assist in 16 Turkish Super Lig appearances while also playing a key role in the club’s Turkish Cup triumph.
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His rapid adaptation to life in Turkey has not gone unnoticed, with several European clubs now keeping tabs on the defender’s situation.
According to Turkish publication Taka Gazete, Trabzonspor will only consider selling Nwaiwu if they receive an offer exceeding €35 million.
While the club regard Nwaiwu as a crucial part of their long-term plans, they could potentially consider a sale should any interested club meet their valuation.
Premier League side Fulham are reportedly keeping close tabs on the former Enyimba defender, while Serie A outfit Lazio are also among suitors keen on securing his services.
The Italian club reportedly view Nwaiwu as a potential replacement for Alessio Romagnoli, whose future in Rome remains uncertain amid links with a move to Qatar. Lazio are said to have already seen an initial offer rejected, with Trabzonspor standing firm on their valuation.
German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen are also another team monitoring the Nigerian’s progress following his impressive rise over the last two years.
Despite the speculation, Trabzonspor are under no immediate pressure to sell. Nwaiwu remains contracted to the club until 2030, and the general expectation is for him to stay put unless a club arrives with an offer that matches the Turkish side’s lofty demands.
The Black Sea Storm have nevertheless begun exploring contingency plans and are reportedly considering a move for Tromsø defender Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh should Nwaiwu eventually depart this summer.
