Besiktas target 21yo Nigeria dynamo on Villarreal, Mainz and Super Eagles’ radar

Turkish giants Besiktas have stepped up their interest in young Nigerian midfielder Anthony Dennis following another excellent Super Lig campaign, Afrik-Foot reports.

Besiktas’ interest in the 21-year-old midfield dynamo is not surprising as he has emerged as one of the most talked-about talents in Turkey this season.

As per a Fotomac report, the Istanbul club are closely tracking his progress at Göztepe, where he has become a key figure in the centre of the park.

Dennis has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in the Süper Lig, making 24 appearances and scoring three goals. Those strikes, including efforts against Trabzonspor and Konyaspor, have boosted his growing influence, but it is his all-round game that has truly caught attention. Strong in tackles, quick across the ground and tactically disciplined, Dennis has been compared in style to Wilfred Ndidi.

Besiktas, managed by Sergen Yalçın, are believed to see Dennis as a perfect fit for their pressing system. The club’s recruitment team has been monitoring him for months, and there is a belief that his energy and ability to break up play would strengthen their midfield.

There is also a connection that could help Besiktas in their pursuit. The club signed Junior Olaitan from Göztepe earlier in the summer, and his relationship with Dennis could play a role if talks progress. Both players previously formed a strong partnership, and a reunion in Istanbul is seen as a real possibility.

Besiktas face strong competition for Nigerian wonderkid

However, Besiktas are far from alone in the race. Dennis’ consistent performances have attracted interest from across Europe, with clubs in Spain and Germany also keeping close tabs on his development.

Villarreal CF are among the sides linked with the midfielder, while FSV Mainz 05 have also been mentioned as potential suitors.

Reports suggest even more clubs are watching quietly, knowing his value could rise further if he maintains his current level.

Göztepe are under no pressure to sell. Dennis is under contract until 2027, and the club are expected to demand a fee in the region of €8–10 million. That puts them in a strong position as interest grows.

There is also an international angle to his rise. Dennis is tipped to earn his first call-up to the Nigeria national football team later this year if his performances continue. With Nigeria always searching for reliable midfield options, his profile as a disciplined ball-winner makes him an attractive option for the national team.

The focus for now, though, remains on finishing the season strongly. The best of the rest, Göztepe sit sixth on the Super Lig table with 43 points, behind only Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, Trabzonspor, Besiktas and Istanbul Basaksehir.