Leeds United and Sheffield United want to sign Everton defender Ben Godfrey
Leeds United want to sign Everton defender Ben Godfrey in the January transfer window, according to Calcio Mercato.
The Italian outlet reported via their website on 21 January that the out-of-favour Toffees man is a target for the Whites this month, but there is competition from Sheffield United.
His lack of playing time under Sean Dyche at Goodison Park is believed to make him a relatively low-cost target, having featured just three times in all competitions this season.
The 26-year-old has 18 months left on his Everton deal and is also attracting interest from Europe.
The answer?
It is no secret that Daniel Farke needs reinforcements at the back, notwithstanding the rousing 2-1 victory over Preston North End at Elland Road on Sunday.
The dual decisions to end Djed Spence’s loan and allow Luke Ayling to leave for Middlesbrough, on top of a disagreement behind the scenes with Charlie Cresswell, and injury concerns on Sam Byram and Junior Firpo, has left all three defensive positions as areas to strengthen this month.
Primarily a centre-back, former Norwich City man Godfrey can operate at full-back so has an element of versatility that could make him attractive at Elland Road.
However, he is not likely to be an upgrade on either Firpo and Byram on the left, or potentially even Archie Gray on the right, but would provide cover if necessary and is a capable central option.
He likely wouldn’t be too expensive if Leeds United wanted to do a permanent deal, but given Everton’s financial issues there isn’t likely to be much interest from them to allow Godfrey to leave on loan.
The situation relating to the Toffees’ points deduction and potential compensation to the Whites is also a possible complicating factor.
Jack Harrison’s loan move has gone through in recent months but Leeds were powerless to resist it, while they steadfastly refused to facilitate Willy Gnonto following him on a permanent deal in the summer.
In other Leeds United news, another Whites player is set to leave the club on loan imminently.
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