Sheffield United are in talks to sign Ben Godfrey on loan from Serie A side Atalanta, as reported by Football Insider. The Blades are seeking defensive reinforcements following the sale of Anel Ahmedhodzic to Feyenoord, and view the 27-year-old as a viable option to bolster their backline.
Godfrey joined Atalanta from Everton in the summer of 2024 for a reported fee of £10 million but struggled to break into the side, making just five appearances in all competitions during the first half of the season. This included two outings in the Champions League. In January 2025, he was loaned to Premier League newcomers Ipswich Town but again saw limited action, featuring just five times.
Despite limited minutes last season, Godfrey remains an experienced figure with 82 Premier League appearances and international caps for England. Sheffield United’s manager Ruben Selles is understood to be prioritising experience and versatility, and Godfrey’s CV across the top tiers in England and Italy aligns with that vision.
The defender began his career at York City before spells with Norwich City, Shrewsbury Town (loan), and Everton. Notably, he helped Norwich win promotion to the Premier League in 2018/19 and was Everton’s Young Player of the Year in 2020/21.
Negotiations are reportedly centred around a loan agreement, with United hoping Atalanta will subsidise part of the defender’s reported £77.5k-per-week wage. A successful deal could see Godfrey provide short-term cover while the Blades seek a permanent successor to Ahmedhodzic.
📊 Key FotMob Stats – 2024/25 (All Competitions):
• Atalanta Appearances: 5
• Ipswich Town Appearances: 5
• Total Goals: 0
• Total Assists: 0
• Minutes Played: 159
• Aerial Duels Won: 100%
• Total Duels Won: 66.7%
• Passing Accuracy: 82% (13th percentile among Championship CBs)
🟥 ZONE RUMOURED
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