UEFA Conference League champions Crystal Palace have joined the race to sign Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu from Turkish side Trabzonspor during the current summer transfer window.
Nwaiwu has emerged as one of the most sought-after Nigerian defenders in Europe following a series of impressive performances since joining Trabzonspor during the winter transfer window.
The centre-back quickly established himself as a key figure for the Turkish club with his composed defending, physical presence and consistency at the back.
His outstanding displays in the Turkish Super Lig also earned him a maiden invitation to the Super Eagles, making his senior international debut in Nigeria's 2-1 victory over Iran in March 2026.
The Nigerian International’s performances have since attracted interest from several European clubs, with uncertainty continuing to surround his future ahead of the new season.
Fulham are among the clubs strongly linked with the Nigerian international, with reports indicating that the defender has already reached a verbal agreement on personal terms with the Premier League side.
However, the Cottagers are yet to agree a transfer fee with Trabzonspor, with negotiations between the two clubs still ongoing.
According to transfer expert Florian Plettenberg, Crystal Palace have now entered the race and have identified Nwaiwu as one of the defensive options they are considering this summer.
The Eagles are in the market for a new central defender as they prepare for the expected departure of Maxence Lacroix, who is reportedly close to completing a move to Chelsea.
Despite their interest in the Nigerian, Palace are understood to have Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima as their primary target.
Should a move for Matsima fail to materialise, the South London club are expected to intensify their pursuit of Nwaiwu before the transfer window closes.
With interest continuing to grow from the Premier League, the Super Eagles defender will be eager to resolve his future before the start of the 2026/2027 campaign and continue his development at the highest level.
Adeyemi Adewale
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