David Ornstein shares Leeds United transfer update on Ben Godfrey at Everton
Leeds United have enquired about the signing of Everton defender Ben Godfrey but are not close to convincing the Toffees to agree a deal, according to David Ornstein.
The Athletic journalist reported [25 January, 4:14pm] that the Whites are interested in signing Everton outcast Godfrey from Goodison Park, however are a “long way off” convincing Everton to do business.
It is understood that the centre-back is also open to playing abroad, which would open up his transfer options this month amid a lack of playing time under Sean Dyche.
Makes no sense
There is no doubt that Godfrey is a talented defender, having proven himself over several seasons at Goodison Park. However, the 26-year-old may be in the same position at Elland Road as he is in now – stuck on the bench.
He has only made one Premier League start this season, impressing during a 2-0 victory over Burnley in December, with star centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite suspended after picking up five yellow cards.
But the player has failed to build on that performance, playing zero minutes since featuring and falling back down the pecking order behind Branthwaite, James Tarkowski and Michael Keane.
With Daniel Farke’s preferred defensive partnership of Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk readily available, and Liam Cooper as a solid replacement when fit, there is no reason why either would be dropped if Leeds brought Godfrey into the frame.
Plus, Leeds are far off what Everton expect them to offer for their outcasted defender, it may not be worth it to bring Godfrey in during the January transfer window, especially when Ethan Ampadu is capable of covering in defence.
In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay claims that the Whites are seriously considering acceptable offers for one player with a new signing on the cards.
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