Super Eagles star in line for Premier League move after Chelsea land Lacroix

Crystal Palace have reportedly placed Nigerian defender Chibuike Nwaiwu on their transfer wishlist as they actively search for defensive reinforcements.

The London club are looking to secure a quality replacement for Maxence Lacroix, who is currently finalising a blockbuster £52 million departure to London rivals Chelsea.

Despite the strong interest in Nwaiwu, the Nigerian international is reportedly not their primary option for the defensive vacancy.

Crystal Palace have identified Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima as their first-choice target to replace the departing Lacroix.

According to David Ornstein, Nwaiwu has been selected as the club's immediate backup plan should their pursuit of Matsima fail to materialise.

Matsima is currently valued at an estimated €22 million by his German club following an impressive breakthrough campaign in the Bundesliga.

If Crystal Palace do shift their focus to Nwaiwu, they will face a difficult financial negotiation with his current employers.

The 22-year-old is contracted to Trabzonspor until June 2030, giving the Turkish side significant leverage in any transfer discussions.

Trabzonspor recently rejected a €28 million total package from Fulham, with the club reportedly holding out for a record-breaking fee between €30 million and €35 million.

Despite the stalled negotiations, Nwaiwu has informed his representatives that his preference is to continue his career in the Premier League.

The towering 1.93-metre defender has enjoyed a remarkable ascent over the past few seasons.

Since joining Trabzonspor from Wolfsberger in January, Nwaiwu has delivered an excellent statistical return for a defender (21 appearances, three goals).

His impressive club form also earned him international recognition, resulting in three senior caps for the Nigerian national team earlier this year.

The young centre-back has developed a strong winning pedigree, securing three major domestic trophies during his short career.

Nwaiwu won the Nigerian Premier Football League with Enyimba, the Austrian Cup during his spell with Wolfsberger, and most recently lifted the Turkish Cup with Trabzonspor.