Nigerian striker Emmanuel Dennis is on the brink of sealing a surprise move to Iranian giants Persepolis, following his departure from English Premier League club Nottingham Forest in August.
The 27-year-old enjoyed an impressive stint at Watford and earned a move to Forest in 2022, but struggled to replicate his previous form, casting doubts over future. He was loaned out to Turkish side Istanbul Basaksehir for the 2023-24 season.
The Super Eagles forward was left out of the squad ahead of the 2024-25 season and did not make any appearance for the English side since 2023, until his departure in the summer after agreeing to a mutual contract termination.
Dennis is now set for a shock move to Iran, with former champions Persepolis offering a two-year deal with the option of an additional year.
The move could also offer him a potential route back into the Super Eagles team, and a timely one as the Super Eagles are still in the hunt for a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
Here are three reasons the striker will flourish at the club should the move materialize.
Emmanuel Dennis to sign a two-year deal with Iranian giants Persepolis
Experience
Emmanuel Dennis is well-experienced, having enjoyed previous stints playing at the top level.
The Nigerian international previously featured for clubs across major leagues in Europe including England, Germany and Belgium
At 27 years of age, he brings a lot of experience to the team and could also offer leadership abilities as well.
Style of play
Persepolis often depend on patient buildup play and possession football, which will greatly suit Emmanuel Dennis, due to his impressive linkup plays.
The Super Eagles striker is great at linking up with his teammates and exploit spaces in behind the defense to score crucial goals.
He can also play as a main striker or as a second striker, which will be helpful in breaking stubborn defensive backlines.
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Goalscoring prowess
Emmanuel Dennis is a prolific goalscorer and has previously shown his impressive ability at the likes of Club Brugge and Watford.
The 27-year-old will be a main threat with his presence in the box and will be effective in leading the line well for the Iranian club.
His goals will be crucial as they look to reclaim their league title and possibly win a continental trophy as well.
