Fulham & Crystal Palace target Nwaiwu responds to interest

Super Eagles and Trabzonspor defender Chibuike Nwaiwu has addressed speculation surrounding his future amid interest from Premier League duo Fulham and Crystal Palace, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 23-year-old has been the subject of intense transfer speculation throughout the summer, with several clubs reportedly looking to strengthen their squads with a move for the Nigerian defender.

Nwaiwu only joined the Turkish club during the winter transfer window earlier this year, but he quickly established himself as an important member of the squad for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.

The defender became a mainstay in Trabzonspor's backline and played a key role in their successful Turkish Cup campaign last season.

He featured for the full 90 minutes in the Turkish Cup final as Trabzonspor lifted the trophy, and he has carried that form into the new season.

Nwaiwu has played every minute of Trabzonspor's three matches so far this campaign, including Sunday's 2-1 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir, which handed the club their first win of the season.

Nwaiwu commits to Trabzonspor amid Fulham & Crystal Palace interest

Nwaiwu made his third appearance of the season against Istanbul Basaksehir and once again impressed as Trabzonspor secured an important three points.

Speaking after the game, the Super Eagles defender praised his team's performance and insisted that he remains focused on preparing for every match.

“Actually, we prepared well for this match. We knew they were a good opponent. We are very happy that we got three points”, he said post-match.

“We can say that there are these in football. I prepare well for every game. I'm ready for every game. I will work hard and continue to prepare for the next match.”

Nwaiwu also addressed the speculation surrounding his future and made it clear that his focus remains on Trabzonspor.

The defender acknowledged that he had seen reports linking him with other clubs but stressed that he remains under with Trabzonspor and that any decision over his future rests with the club.

“I also saw the news that was mentioned. I focused on my football and I still have a contract with Trabzonspor. After that, it is up to the club's decisions. We are in Trabzon with my family and we are happy”, Nwaiwu added.

Fulham and Crystal Palace have both had multiple bids rejected as they look to sign the Nigerian defender this summer, although a move could still happen before the transfer window closes..

The Nigerian defender will miss Trabzonspor's midweek clash with Ferencvaros due to suspension but is expected to return for their league meeting with Amedspor next Monday.