Fulham are reportedly weighing up a summer move for Nigeria international Chibuike Nwaiwu, following the defender’s eye-catching performances in Turkey.

The 22-year-old centre-back has made a strong impression since joining Trabzonspor from Wolfsberger AC in January, showcasing his aerial dominance with three headed goals in the Süper Lig. 

His contributions have been decisive, including a match-winning strike against Galatasaray and a brace versus Fatih Karagümrük.

Nwaiwu's standout displays have not gone unnoticed, earning him recognition from the CIES Football Observatory, which ranked him as the best centre-back in Turkey aged 23 or under and the second-best U23 player in the division.

According to FourFourTwo, Fulham are closely monitoring both Nwaiwu and his Trabzonspor teammate Wagner Pina, with a view to a potential summer transfer.

Interest in the Nigerian defender is not limited to England as Bayer Leverkusen are also tracking his progress. 

Nwaiwu has a contract with Trabzonspor until the end of the 2029–2030 season.

Fulham have identified the young defender as a possible reinforcement at centre-back, particularly with Calvin Bassey and Issa Diop set to enter the final year of their contracts at the end of the season.

Nwaiwu received a late call-up to the Super Eagles in March after Bassey withdrew from the squad due to a back injury ahead of friendly matches against Iran and Jordan.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel