Turkish champions Galatasaray have joined the race to sign Nigerian midfielder Anthony Dennis from Göztepe, with the 21-year-old emerging as a potential replacement for Gabon international Mario Lemina.
Dennis has attracted growing interest following a series of strong performances in the Turkish Super Lig, with Bundesliga sides RB Leipzig and Union Berlin also monitoring his situation.
Reports in the Turkish press say Galatasaray are assessing their midfield options ahead of the January transfer window, with Lemina’s recurring injury problems prompting the club to consider younger alternatives.
Dennis has been one of Göztepe’s standout players this season, scoring three goals in 15 league appearances. Primarily a defensive midfielder, he has also impressed in a box-to-box role, drawing praise for his physical presence, ball recovery and ability in duels.
Anthony Dennis of Goztepe in action during the Trendyol Super Lig week 16 match between Gaziantep FK and Goztepe. Photo Credit: Imago
Göztepe are believed to value the Nigerian at around €10m, although sources close to the club suggest bids closer to €8m could be considered. The Izmir-based side are, however, reluctant to sanction a mid-season sale.
RB Leipzig, who completed a €20m deal with Göztepe for midfielder Romulo during the summer, are reported to have made contact regarding Dennis, while Union Berlin are also tracking his progress.
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Dennis represents an attractive option beyond his on-field qualities. Born in 2004, he qualifies under Turkish football’s squad registration “+2 rule”, allowing immediate inclusion in the first team. The club have also explored a move for Brentford midfielder Vitaly Janelt, but Dennis is viewed as a longer-term solution.
Sebastian Szymanski of Fenerbahce in action against Anthony Dennis of Goztepe during Turkish Super Lig second-week football match between Fenerbahce and Goztepe. Photo Credit: Imago
Göztepe’s majority owners, Sport Republic, are understood to favour transfers to major European leagues but have not ruled out a sale should their valuation be met.
Dennis is also on the radar of domestic rivals Fenerbahçe and Trabzonspor as the January window approaches.
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The midfielder was named in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the Africa Cup of Nations but narrowly missed out on a place in the final selection, as speculation over his club future continues to intensify.
