Sheffield United are reportedly interested in Everton defensive duo Ben Godfrey and Mason Holgate as Chris Wilder plots a last-ditch move on deadline day.
According to Sky Sports senior reporter Rob Dorsett via his personal X account, Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder has several defensive targets on his list, including Everton duo Ben Godfrey and Mason Holgate. The Blades are desperate to bring in a new central defender and have been linked with a host of names throughout the window.
Sheffield United Want Defensive Reinforcement
Chris Wilder is keen to make sure he brings in at least one new face before tomorrow, and Leicester City’s Souttar was understood to be his first choice. However, it is thought a deal for Souttar is unlikely, which could increase the possibility of the Blades turning their attention to Mason Holgate or Ben Godfrey.
Everton’s January window so far has been dominated by those who might leave rather than potential incomings, such is their perilous financial condition. The points deduction imposed on them for breaking the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules have the potential to be quite destructive. And with years of wrongdoing to address, they may have to sacrifice a few key players to be able to do any incoming business before the deadline.
To that end, offloading either Godfrey or Holgate for a solid fee would be fantastic for the Toffees, with neither featuring in Sean Dyche’s long-term plans. Having been signed for £20 million under Carlo Ancelotti’s reign, Godfrey admittedly has not quite kicked on since that outstanding debut campaign, mostly attributed to injury problems.
With moves to Atletico Madrid and Genoa touted over the last few weeks, there seems to be a very real possibility that the 26-year-old could be moved on for a substantial fee. Sean Dyche has sporadically utilised Godfrey this season, and with the club’s financial troubles worsening, they will be eager to generate revenue wherever feasible.
Meanwhile, Holgate is on loan at Southampton, and if the Merseyside club can recall him in favour of a permanent exit, Everton and Dyche would greatly benefit. Having said that, Sheffield United are one of Everton’s direct relegation rivals, and strengthening their Premier League rivals at this point in the season is something the Toffees should be extremely cautious with.
