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Nigerian midfielder Anthony Dennis has completed a move to Al-Jazira, with the United Arab Emirates club confirming his arrival from Turkish side Goztepe, Footynaija reports.
The 22-year-old is expected to take over the midfield role left by former Arsenal player Mohamed Elneny, whose contract with Al-Jazira ended in June.
The club did not reveal the length or value of Dennis’ contract. However, reports suggest Al-Jazira paid about €5m, with possible extra payments linked to his performances.
Dennis has been registered as a resident player in the UAE and will wear the number 30 shirt during the 2026-27 season.
His move brings an end to a rise that started in Goztepe’s youth system. Dennis worked his way into the senior team and made his first-team debut against Corum in January 2024.
He went on to make 83 official appearances for the Turkish club. He scored four goals and provided five assists.
The move also gives Dennis a chance to take the next step in his international career. He has been considered a player for the Super Eagles but is yet to make his senior debut for Nigeria.
He was named in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March 2025. However, he was not included in the final squad.
Dennis had attracted interest from clubs in England’s Premier League and Germany’s Bundesliga before choosing Al-Jazira.
His arrival suggests the UAE club sees him as more than a short-term signing. At 22, he has time to develop while taking on a midfield role previously held by one of Egypt’s most experienced players.
The move is also an opportunity for Dennis to turn club progress into a stronger case for a place in the Super Eagles.
