Crystal Palace have joined the race to sign Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu from Trabzonspor. This comes as they expect Maxence Lacroix to leave for Chelsea, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
The UEFA Conference League champions see the 23-year-old Nigerian centre-back as a good option to boost their defence for the new season. Nwaiwu has become one of the most wanted Nigerian defenders in Europe since he joined Trabzonspor in the winter transfer window. He quickly became a key player for the Turkish club with his calm defending, strong presence, and steady performance.
His good form in the Turkish Super Lig earned him a spot in the Super Eagles. He made his senior international debut during Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Iran in March. Palace are now keeping an eye on his situation as they work to replace Lacroix, who is reportedly close to moving to Chelsea.
Transfer expert Florian Plettenberg says Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima is still Palace’s main target. Nwaiwu is seen as a backup option if they cannot get the Frenchman. Palace’s interest adds to the rising competition for the Nigerian. Fulham is also looking to sign him.
The Cottagers have reportedly agreed verbally with Nwaiwu on personal terms. But they have not yet settled on a transfer fee with Trabzonspor. With more Premier League teams showing interest, Nwaiwu’s future should become clearer as the summer transfer window goes on.
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