Leeds United’s search for defensive additions this month has seen us linked with a move for Everton centre-back Ben Godfrey – a player that Rio Ferdinand has branded as “absolutely outstanding”.
The 26-year-old is likely to be on his way out of Goodison Park before the end of the January window. It comes after playing just three times for The Toffees during the 2023-24 season, at the halfway stage.
The former Norwich man, who played under Daniel Farke after coming through the Carrow Road set up, has fallen behind Sean Dyche in the pecking order – behind Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski.
Leeds need a left-back and a right-back, and may have to replace Charlie Cresswell with Farke saying he is unlikely to play for Leeds until he changes his attitude. Godfrey can play in all three positions.
The £68k-a-week defender has interest from Leeds, as well as Sheffield United, Atalanta and AC Milan. A player that Farke has raved about in the past. Ferdinand is also a big fan, praising him back in 2020.
Speaking to his FIVE channel, Ferdinand said: “Ben Godfrey was absolutely outstanding. The pace he has shown the last couple of games, especially Timo Werner against Chelsea. Against Arsenal as well.
“Look at the pace of the kid. Pepe £72 million worth. I am sure Mr Godfrey will be looking in his pocket thinking where is he. Is there someone causing me a bit of friction in my pocket? He was fantastic.”
Rio Ferdinand’s past praise of new Leeds target Ben Godfrey
Godfrey is a top, top player but it just does not seem to be working right now, over at Goodison. He needs a move to freshen up his career, and to find a team where he can play regular football now on.
But he is also a Premier League player and a move to Leeds, he may feel, is beneath him at this time. The one hope Leeds have, is that he would be reunited with Farke. If a deal is there to be done, do it.
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