Ben Godfrey, the 26-year-old defender, is on the verge of leaving Everton after falling out of favor due to injuries. He has traveled to Italy for a medical with Atalanta after the club agreed to a £10m fee for his transfer. Godfrey, who generated interest from Lyon as well, is poised to join the Europa League champions in an unexpected move.
With only one year left on his contract at Goodison Park, Everton risked losing Godfrey on a free transfer if they did not sell him this summer. Despite making 93 appearances for Everton, he started just 13 Premier League games last season and 10 the season before. Following an impressive first season after joining Everton from Norwich for £20m in 2020, Godfrey has struggled with injuries and Covid disruptions, making him a fringe player under manager Sean Dyche.
While Everton is allowing Godfrey to depart, they have turned down a £35m offer from Manchester United for center-back Jarrad Branthwaite. They have also extended contracts for veteran full-backs Ashley Young and Seamus Coleman. Godfrey will be the club’s second summer sale after Lewis Dobbin was sold to Aston Villa for £9m.
Godfrey will now be in line to play Champions League football with Atalanta next season as he looks to revitalize his career and find regular playing time.