Sheffield United have set their sights on bolstering their defensive ranks with a move for Atalanta’s Ben Godfrey, a versatile defender with deep ties to Yorkshire football. The Blades have approached the Serie A club to secure the 27-year-old on a loan deal, aiming to add experience and quality to their squad as they chase promotion back to the Premier League.
A Yorkshire Homecoming
Born in York, Godfrey’s footballing journey began with York City, where he made his senior debut at just 17 years old in 2015. His performances in League Two caught the attention of Norwich City, who signed him for £150,000 in January 2016, a deal that later proved lucrative for York when Godfrey’s transfer to Everton in 2020 netted the non-league club nearly £2.5 million through a sell-on clause.
Godfrey’s career has since seen him rise through the ranks, starring for Norwich in both the Championship and Premier League, where he played a key role in their 2018-19 promotion-winning campaign. His £20 million move to Everton in 2020, which could rise to £25 million with add-ons, marked him as one of Yorkshire’s brightest talents. At Everton, he made 93 appearances, including 82 in the Premier League, and earned two England caps in 2021.
Tactical Fit
Sheffield United’s interest in Godfrey comes as they look to fill the void left by the departure of centre-back Anel Ahmedhodzic to Feyenoord. With new manager Ruben Selles tasked with guiding the Blades back to the Premier League after a heartbreaking play-off final loss to Sunderland last season, Godfrey’s experience in both the Championship and the top flight makes him an attractive target.
A Shrewd Move for the Blades
Sheffield United’s transfer strategy this summer has been cautious, with the club balancing financial constraints after losing key players like Ahmedhodzic and Vini Souza. Loan signings such as Louie Barry and Djibril Soumare have added flair, but permanent additions have been limited to untested talents like Mihail Polendakov and Ehije Ukaki. Godfrey, with his wealth of experience, could provide the backbone United need to compete in the gruelling Championship campaign.
A Chance to Revive a Stalled Career
For Godfrey, a return to Yorkshire could be the fresh start he needs. His limited game time in Italy and at Ipswich has seen him fall out of the England reckoning, but regular football in the Championship could help him regain confidence and form. A move to Bramall Lane would also bring him closer to his roots, potentially reigniting the spark that saw him emerge as one of York City’s most exciting products.
