Footy-Africa can exclusively report that Turkish champions Galatasaray have entered the race to sign Nigerian midfielder Anthony Dennis, casting fresh doubt over Coventry City’s pursuit of the highly-rated Göztepe player.
Sources close to the player have told Footy-Africa that Galatasaray have already submitted an opening offer for the 21-year-old, although the bid was rejected by Göztepe. The Süper Lig champions are expected to return with an improved proposal in the coming days.
Coventry City, newly promoted to the Premier League, had emerged as the frontrunners for Dennis after holding several rounds of discussions over a potential transfer. However, Galatasaray’s arrival has intensified competition for the midfielder’s signature.
Göztepe are understood to value Dennis at around €8 million, although that figure could rise as interest continues to grow from across Europe.
The Nigerian has attracted attention from several clubs during the current transfer window. German sides Hoffenheim and Augsburg have both been credited with an interest, while Anderlecht, Rennes and Lokomotiv Moscow have also monitored his situation.
Earlier this summer, Göztepe rejected a €3.5 million bid from Trabzonspor, signalling their determination to maximise the transfer fee for one of their most sought-after assets.
Dennis has just 12 months remaining on his current contract, leaving Göztepe open to a sale before the window closes. The Turkish club are expected to sanction a move if their valuation is met, with the highest bidder likely to secure the midfielder’s services.
