Chidozie Awaziem is set to join Turkish Super Lig side Konyaspor, according to reports in France. The 29-year-old Nigerian international will move for a fee of approximately €1 million, with discussions between Nantes and Konyaspor at an advanced stage.
Awaziem previously played in Turkey with Rizespor and Caykur Rizespor, making this a return to a league he is familiar with. He rejoined Nantes last summer, signing a three-year contract, but will now depart after just one season back at the club. The defender initially had a spell with Nantes during the 2017-2018 campaign, arriving on loan from Porto.
During the recent Ligue 1 season, Awaziem made 26 appearances for Nantes, scoring one goal and providing two assists. Despite his contributions, Nantes suffered relegation from the French top flight. The move follows a similar pattern to that of Nantes goalkeeper Alban Lafont, who is also expected to move to a Turkish club, Amedspor.
Awaziem has earned 40 caps for Nigeria, scoring twice, and represents a regular fixture in the national team setup. Konyaspor finished ninth in the Turkish Super Lig last season and will be looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign. The defender is expected to sign a two-year contract with Konyaspor. This transfer allows Nantes to recoup a fee for a player who was part of their relegated squad, while Awaziem gets a chance to continue his career in a league he knows well.
