Premier League clubs Crystal Palace and Fulham are locked in a transfer battle for Trabzonspor defender Chibuike Nwaiwu ahead of the January transfer window.
According to Fanatik, the two English clubs consider the 23-year-old as a target to strengthen their defence and they have sent scouts to watch him in the Turkish Super Lig this season.
Nwaiwu moved to Turkey earlier in January, and he has grown to become one of the standout defenders in the Turkish top-flight.
He has played 10 league matches this season and his defensive contributions have helped Trabzonspor rise to third position in the league table.
Crystal Palace & Fulham considering Nwaiwu move
Nwaiwu, in January, signed a long-term contract that runs until June 2030 but an irresistible offer from England could cut short his time in Trabzon.
The report added that Black Sea Storm are looking to retain their key players, including Nwaiwu, in January as they look to intensify their push for their first Super Lig title since 2020.
In England, Crystal Palace have conceded the most goals in the Premier League this season (21 goals) and they consider the Nigerian centre-back as an option to tighten their leaky defence.
Fulham have also struggled with defensive crisis this season and are looking to reset their backline in January.
Nwaiwu considers himself a 'fearless' ball-winner
Nwaiwu, who has played majorly as a centre-back in his career, considers himself as a versatile player who could also contribute as a defensive midfielder.
He credited his humble beginnings in Nigeria with Enyimba as the foundation for his strong performances in the defence.
"I would describe myself as a very aggressive and fearless player," Nwaiwu told beIN Sport.
"I don't like taking risks on the pitch. I prefer to play a safe and solid game. I like winning the ball.
"My coaches in Nigeria, Finidi George and Koc Yem, taught me how to play both as a center-back and a defensive midfielder. Perhaps this characteristic helped me progress."
