Nigeria Super Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem is on the verge of a move to Turkish Super Lig club Konyaspor, with the two parties having agreed on the terms of a two-year contract that includes an option for a third year.

Konyaspor are expected to pay €1 million to French club Nantes to secure Awaziem's signature, ending what proved to be a brief and difficult stay for the 28-year-old in France.

A tough season at Nantes

Awaziem had joined Nantes from MLS side Colorado Rapids last summer, but the centre-back's single campaign with the club ended in heartbreak. The Canaries were relegated from Ligue 1 after finishing 17th, bringing their 2025/26 season to a miserable conclusion.

Despite the team's struggles, Awaziem featured prominently, making 26 league appearances and contributing one goal and two assists for the eight-time French champions.

A familiar league awaits

Should the transfer be completed, it would represent a homecoming of sorts for Awaziem in Turkish football. The Nigeria international previously turned out for both Çaykur Rizespor and Alanyaspor in the Super Lig, where he built a strong reputation as one of the division's most reliable defenders.

Konyaspor, for their part, enjoyed a solid 2025/26 campaign — finishing eighth in the Turkish Super Lig and reaching the Turkish Cup final, where they were beaten by Trabzonspor. The club will be eager to bolster their defensive options as they look to push further up the table next season.