Super Eagles: 40-cap Nigerian defender handed Turkish escape route after Nantes relegation

Super Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem could be set for a swift return to top-flight football after Turkish Super Lig side Konyaspor opened talks over a summer move, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 29-year-old centre-back endured a difficult campaign with French club Nantes last season, as the Canaries suffered relegation to Ligue 2 despite several impressive performances from the Nigerian international.

Awaziem remained one of Nantes' standout performers during the 2025/26 campaign, contributing one goal and two assists in 26 league appearances while also providing leadership at the heart of the defence.

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Super Eagles: Chidozie Awaziem eyeing Konyaspor move

However, Nantes' relegation has plunged the club into financial difficulties, forcing the French side to consider player sales as they attempt to rebuild and push for an immediate return to Ligue 1.

According to Turkish journalist Resat Can Özbudak, Konyaspor have identified Awaziem as one of their priority targets this summer and have already held preliminary discussions with the player's camp.

The Turkish outfit are understood to be assessing the defender's situation and exploring the possibility of completing a deal before the transfer window closes.

For Awaziem, a move to Turkey could offer an immediate route back into top-flight football.

The former FC Porto defender is believed to be keen on continuing his career at the highest level, especially with the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign firmly on the horizon.

Having earned 40 caps for Nigeria since making his debut in 2017, regular football in a competitive first division could prove crucial to maintaining his place in Eric Chelle's plans.

Awaziem has built a reputation as one of Nigeria's most reliable defenders over the years, featuring at multiple AFCON tournaments and becoming a regular presence in the Super Eagles setup.

A move to Konyaspor would also continue his long association with Turkish football, having previously enjoyed loan spells with Caykur Rizespor and Alanyaspor earlier in his career.

His familiarity with the league and environment could make adaptation easier should the transfer eventually materialise.

For Nantes, selling the Nigerian defender could generate much-needed funds while easing pressure on the club's wage structure as preparations begin for life in Ligue 2.

While negotiations are still in the early stages, the prospect of remaining in top-flight football may prove too attractive for Awaziem to ignore.

With several weeks still left in the transfer window, the coming days could be decisive in determining whether the experienced Super Eagles defender begins another chapter of his career in Turkey.