RB Leipzig and Union Berlin are the latest clubs to register strong interest in Nigerian midfielder Anthony Dennis, Soccernet.ng reports.
Dennis' rapid development at Göztepe has made him one of the most closely monitored young players in the Turkish Süper Lig.
The 21-year-old defensive midfielder has been playing in Turkey for three years, but this season represents a clear turning point.
Dennis has gone from promising squad member to undisputed starter, combining defensive steel with a surprising new attacking edge. He has made 14 league appearances this season, scoring three goals, including a stunning strike against Paul Onuachu‘s Trabzonspor. The Turkish top flight is barely halfway through the season and it is already the most prolific scoring return of Dennis' professional career.
Dennis joined Göztepe from Nigerian side HB Abuja in January 2023, initially linking up with the club’s U19 team. His progress was swift.
After impressing in youth football, he was promoted to the senior squad and has since become a cornerstone of Göztepe’s midfield.
Last season, Dennis featured in 32 league matches, establishing himself as a reliable ball-winner and positional anchor. This term, he has added timing, composure and goal threat to his game, qualities that have sharpened European interest.
According to reports in Turkey, several German clubs are monitoring his development closely, but RB Leipzig and Union Berlin are believed to be leading the chase.
Leipzig’s interest is particularly notable given their strong working relationship with Göztepe, following the summer transfer of Brazilian striker Romulo for an initial €20 million, with a further €5 million in add-ons. That successful deal has reportedly strengthened trust between the two clubs, opening the door for further business.
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Nigeria's Anthony Dennis: Göztepe weigh €8m valuation
Despite the growing attention, Göztepe are in no rush to sell. Dennis is not currently on the club’s transfer list, and the management, led by Sport Republic, the company overseeing Göztepe’s football operations, is understood to be carefully weighing its options.
Dennis is under contract until June 30, 2027, giving the Turkish side a strong negotiating position. His current market value is estimated at around €8 million (approx. ₦13.616 billion) though sources suggest Göztepe would only consider a sale if a double-digit offer arrives, either in January or during the summer window.
That valuation reflects both his age and his upward trajectory. Standing at 1.79 metres, Dennis is known for his combative style, tactical discipline and relentless work rate. Coaches at Göztepe have consistently praised his intensity in training and his ability to absorb tactical instructions quickly.
German clubs are not alone in their admiration.
Over the past year, Dennis has also been linked with Premier League side Leeds, Hoffenheim and Augsburg in the Bundesliga, Anderlecht in Belgium, Rennes in France and Lokomotiv Moscow in Russia.
Last summer, Anderlecht reportedly tabled a €3.3 million bid, an offer Göztepe deemed insufficient.
Interestingly, Dennis will not feature at the Africa Cup of Nations, which begins next week. Although he was named in Nigeria’s provisional squad, head coach Eric Chelle omitted him from the final roster. While that decision may disappoint the player, it also allows him to remain fully focused on club football during a crucial period of his career.
Those close to the Super Eagles setup believe Dennis could yet play a significant role for Nigeria in future tournaments.
