Leeds United to return in late January loan move for Daniel Farke ‘priority’ Ben Godfrey
Leeds United are set to return with a renewed bid to sign Everton defender Ben Godfrey, having had an initial loan proposal turned down, according to Football Transfers.
The transfer news outlet reported on 30 January that Daniel Farke is the one pushing for this deal, having worked with Godfrey at Norwich, and has made it a priority to bring the defender to Elland Road.
It is said that Everton are keen to sell Godfrey before the transfer deadline on 1 February as they hope to get him off the wage bill, with Leeds offering an exit route on loan.
One to watch before the deadline
With the boss insisting this deal gets done before 1 February, it appears Leeds’ chase for Godfrey will be one to watch in the closing stages of the January transfer window, with plenty of movement still expected.
Everton’s desire to see Godfrey leave this month, with a need to clear his wages from the bill given their financial situation, could play into Leeds’ hands – especially if they were able to pay a large percentage of his wages as part of the deal.
During his time at Goodison Park, Godfrey has mainly been used as a centre-back under Sean Dyche, usually in a back three, but he has shown he is also capable of playing at right-back which may be the more appealing option for Leeds.
Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk have cemented themselves as the first-choice defensive partnership this season, which would be difficult for Godfrey to break into, but he could be utilised as a right-back who can provide cover in the middle when required.
In other Leeds United news, Celtic will be due a cash windfall after the latest transfer news.
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