Chibuike Nwaiwu transfer battle intensifies as West Ham and Fulham compete for the Super Eagles defender valued at €35m by Trabzonspor

West Ham United have entered the race to sign Nigerian international defender Chibuike Nwaiwu, intensifying competition with Fulham for the highly rated centre-back currently playing for Turkish side Trabzonspor.

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The Chibuike Nwaiwu transfer saga has gathered pace after reports indicated that Fulham had been leading the chase for the 22-year-old Super Eagles defender.

West Ham’s late entry into the contest has now added a new dimension to negotiations ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to Turkish outlet Taka Gazete, West Ham United previously submitted a €30 million offer for Nwaiwu, which was rejected by Trabzonspor.

Fulham are also understood to have had two bids turned down as the Turkish club maintain a firm stance on their valuation.

Trabzonspor are reportedly holding out for around €35 million before sanctioning any potential departure for the Nigerian defender, who only joined the club from Austrian side Wolfsberger AC in January.

Nwaiwu quickly established himself as a key figure in the Turkish side’s defence, making 16 league appearances in the second half of last season while contributing three goals and one assist, an impressive return for a centre-back.

The strong performances have attracted growing attention from Europe’s top leagues, with both Fulham and West Ham now assessing their options as they look to strengthen their defensive units ahead of the new campaign.

The Chibuike Nwaiwu transfer situation is expected to develop further in the coming weeks, with Trabzonspor unlikely to lower their asking price unless a substantial offer is submitted.

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For Nwaiwu, a move to the Premier League would mark a significant step in his rapid rise, following a breakthrough spell in Austria and a swift adaptation to Turkish football.