Everton stance shared as Leeds United ready late January transfer offer for Ben Godfrey
Sean Dyche has given his approval for Everton to sell defender Ben Godfrey amid interest from Leeds United, according to Carlton Palmer.
Godfrey played the full 90 minutes for the Toffees as they kept a clean sheet in Tuesday’s (30 January) 0-0 Premier League draw at Fulham.
However, speaking to Football League World [31 January], Palmer claims Everton are ready to sell should Leeds make an adequate offer.
“Leeds United have had an initial loan offer for Everton defender Ben Godfrey rejected,” he said.
“Sean Dyche and Everton have given the green light for the centre-back to leave the club, as they look to reduce their wage bill.
“Leeds are keen to land Godfrey and are preparing an improved offer in a bid to agree a late deal.”
Why?
Godfrey has only started two games for Everton in the Premier League this season, but the fact he was needed against Fulham casts doubt on this possible exit.
The 26-year-old may be way down the pecking order at centre-back, but he can also slot in at full-back, where he was used at Craven Cottage.
Godfrey is under contract at Goodison Park until the end of next season, so it is not like the club need to rush into selling him this month if they are to avoid missing out on any money.
This is not to say the former Norwich City player, who knows Leeds boss Daniel Farke well, is going to all of a sudden become a regular under Sean Dyche.
However, he is a good option to have and Everton are not really in a position where they can weaken their defence without bringing in a replacement.
One certainty is that if this deal is indeed going to happen, there needs to be some movement pronto as the window closes at 11pm on 1 February.
In other Everton news, the Toffees have reportedly submitted a £17million offer to bring in a new player before the deadline.
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