Anthony Dennis: Why Anderlecht and Hoffenheim have been unable to land Super Eagles target

Super Eagles target Anthony Dennis has been the biggest transfer talking point at Göztepe this summer, amid strong links to several European clubs, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The 23-year-old midfielder joined Göztepe in 2023 and has now entered the final year of his contract. Since his arrival, he has established himself as one of the standout defensive midfielders in the Turkish top flight.

​Last summer, he was tipped to move amid interest from abroad, but a transfer failed to materialize.

​This summer, speculation has intensified given his contract situation. Göztepe have attempted to tie him down to a new deal, but Dennis seemingly has no intention of extending his stay.

​He has been linked with several sides across Europe. Domestically, Galatasaray were touted as a potential destination as they sought midfield reinforcements, though those links have cooled.

​Outside Turkey, Dennis has attracted suitors across the continent, with the likes of Hoffenheim, Mainz, Anderlecht, and Augsburg all credited with interest. Yet, none of these clubs have managed to get a deal over the line. Even newly-promoted Premier League club Coventry City have been linked to him.

​Ordinarily, Dennis would have sealed a transfer by now, but one major stumbling block has stalled his departure.

​Why Anthony Dennis Has Failed to Seal a Move

​A move to any of the interested clubs would represent a significant step up for the Nigerian midfielder. Yet, with the transfer window drawing to a close, he remains stuck in limbo.

​According to Ekrem Konur, financial demands remain the primary reason why a transfer has stalled.

​Anderlecht are the only side to have submitted a formal bid, but their €3.3 million offer was swiftly turned down. Göztepe are holding out for a significantly higher fee before sanctioning his departure.

​With Dennis valued at €8 million on Transfermarkt, the Turkish side’s decision to reject that opening bid is understandable.

​However, Göztepe hold very little leverage in negotiations. The hierarchy is well aware that if they do not cash in now, Dennis will be free to walk away for nothing when his contract expires next summer.

​Nonetheless, expectations remain that the Turkish club will eventually soften their stance. The midfielder has already been frozen out of first-team activities, having missed pre-season and the matchday squad for their 3-3 league opener against Samsunspor.

​With less than two weeks left before the transfer window slams shut, all eyes will be on Göztepe to see if a compromise is reached.

Dennis has never played for Nigeria. But definitely, a transfer to a bigger club where he will get more attention will put him in the eye of the Super Eagles coaches.