CONFIRMED: Everton backup defender completes Champions League switch

CONFIRMED: Everton backup defender completes Champions League switch

Everton confirmed yesterday that defender Ben Godfrey has joined Serie A side and defending Europa League champions Atalanta. With the financial year end of June 30th rapidly approaching and two sides suddenly interested in the 26-year-old, the Blues closed the deal with La Dea once the player had expressed his preference.

Olympique Lyon were also said to have come closer to Everton’s valuation of £15m for the versatile defender, but Godfrey had his sights set on playing Champions League football next season.

Godfrey leaves having made 93 appearances for the Blues over the last four years, not scoring even once but with three assists. He spread that with half the time as a centre back, and the remainder equally distributed at left back and right back.

While no fee was officially confirmed, other reports seem to indicate numbers in the range of €9 million (£7.6m) plus another €1m (£0.9) in add-ons.

Here’s wishing Ben Godfrey all the very best in his career!