Galatasaray to replace Gabon’s Lemina with Nigerian youngster wanted by RB Leipzig, Fenerbahce

Turkish champions Galatasaray have entered the race to sign Göztepe's Nigerian midfielder Anthony Dennis, Soccernet.ng reports.

Galatasaray's interest in Dennis could set up a potential transfer battle with German Bundesliga clubs RB Leipzig and Union Berlin for the 21-year-old's signature.

The Super Lig leaders, currently preparing for their mid-season transfer strategy, have identified Dennis as a potential successor to injury-prone Gabonese international Denis Lemina, according to reports in the Turkish press. 

The young defensive midfielder has emerged as one of the most sought-after talents in Turkish football, attracting attention from multiple clubs across Europe and Turkey with his commanding performances for Göztepe this season.

Dennis has registered three goals in 15 appearances for the Izmir-based club, displaying versatility by operating effectively in both defensive midfield and box-to-box roles. His physical presence, ball-winning capabilities, and success in duels have made him a standout performer in the Super Lig. He is said to have caught the attentions of Galatasaray's scouting department since the campaign's opening weeks.

Göztepe, who commanded a €20 million fee from Leipzig for midfielder Romulo during the summer window, have valued Dennis at approximately €10 million. However, sources close to the club suggest they are expecting offers closer to €8 million for the Super Eagles invitee, though they remain cautious about sanctioning a mid-season departure.

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Nigeria's Dennis in the eye of German and Turkish clubs

The intensifying interest from abroad has significantly boosted Dennis's market value. RB Leipzig, having already established a relationship with Göztepe through the Romulo transfer, have reportedly made contact regarding the young midfielder.

Union Berlin are also monitoring developments closely, with both German clubs attracted by his potential and relatively modest valuation.

For Galatasaray, Dennis represents an attractive proposition beyond his on-field qualities. Born in 2004, he satisfies Turkish football's “+2 rule” regarding squad registration, making him eligible for immediate integration into the first-team setup. The club has already made contact with Brentford's Vitaly Janelt, whose contract expires at the season's end, but Dennis offers a younger, domestically-based alternative.

Sport Republic, which holds majority ownership of Göztepe, has adopted a measured approach to the speculation. The ownership group reportedly favours sales to European markets and operates under a sustainable financial model, though the club's hierarchy has not ruled out a transfer should their valuation be met.

Dennis also features on the shortlists of domestic rivals Fenerbahçe and Trabzonspor, with the latter particularly keen to strengthen their squad as they pursue a top-three finish.

The coming weeks will prove decisive as the January transfer window approaches, with Göztepe facing a crucial decision over whether to retain their prized asset or cash in on mounting European interest.

Dennis narrowly missed Nigeria’s final squad to the Africa Cup of Nations after being named in the provisional 54-man roster.