Anthony Dennis: How Coventry City move could boost Super Eagles chances of Göztepe star

Coventry City are pushing to complete the signing of Nigerian midfielder Anthony Dennis from Turkish club Göztepe as the summer transfer window gathers momentum, Afrik-Foot reports.

The newly promoted Premier League side, managed by former England midfielder Frank Lampard, have moved ahead of several rival clubs in the race for the 22-year-old. Reports indicate that talks between both clubs are at an advanced stage, with discussions now focused on the final financial details of the transfer package.

Dennis has emerged as a key Nigerian central midfielder in Turkey following an impressive 2025/26 campaign in the Süper Lig. He made 31 appearances for Göztepe, scored three goals and established himself as one of the club’s most reliable performers in midfield.

Interest in the Nigerian has also arrived from Turkish giants Trabzonspor and Beşiktaş, as well as clubs in Germany. However, Coventry appear to be leading the race.

Göztepe are reportedly demanding around €15 million for the midfielder after recently securing a major transfer profit from the sale of Brazilian forward Rômulo to RB Leipzig. Club officials believe Dennis can become their next big-money departure.

Anthony Dennis: Premier League exposure could strengthen Super Eagles credentials

A move to Coventry City could significantly improve Dennis’ chances of becoming a regular member of Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles squad.

Although he has previously received provisional invitations to the national team setup, he is yet to make his international debut and establish himself among Nigeria’s first-choice midfield options. Playing every week in the Premier League would place him under greater scrutiny and provide stronger evidence of his ability against elite opposition.

Nigeria currently boasts experienced midfielders such as Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Tochukwu Nnadi and Raphael Onyedika. Breaking into that group requires consistent performances at the highest level, and the Premier League offers exactly that platform.

The visibility that comes with English football could also remove some of the limitations players often face while competing outside Europe’s top five leagues. Strong displays against leading clubs would place Dennis firmly on the radar of national team selectors.

Another factor that could work in Dennis’ favour is the possibility of playing alongside fellow Nigerian international Frank Onyeka at Coventry City.

Onyeka recently made his stay at the club permanent after helping them secure promotion from the Championship. If the pair develop a strong partnership in midfield, it could provide Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle with a ready-made combination for international football.

Lampard’s presence is another important element. Widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s greatest midfielders, the Coventry manager could help Dennis add more attacking qualities to his game while refining his passing, positioning and decision-making.

Known primarily for his tackling, energy and ball-winning ability, Dennis already possesses the defensive qualities needed at the highest level. Under Lampard’s guidance, he could develop into a more complete midfielder capable of influencing games at both ends of the pitch.

Dennis, who only left Nigeria for Turkey in January 2023, is believed to be open to moving to the Premier League.