It is no secret that Everton will have to sell before they can buy. And even then, a significant outbound transfer does not guarantee that a replacement will come too.
Anthony Gordon’s departure in January 2023 is a prime example, with the club gladly accepting the £45m sent their way, but neglecting to find someone to fill in for him for the rest of the season.
Fortunately, it was a gamble that paid off, but they cannot afford to continue taking such monumental risks when so much is at stake.
So, it would have been a pleasant surprise to see the likes of Michael Keane and Ben Godfrey both linked with exits this window, as viable options to be sold without weakening the squad much at all.
That was, before the latter indulged in yet another stunning display last night, surely making Sean Dyche think twice about allowing the former Norwich City man to leave so easily.
Will Ben Godfrey leave Everton?
However, having made his stance clear enough that many clubs have now shown their interest, it could be a deal taken out of his hands.
Especially if the rumours posted by Italian outlet Tutto Mercato Web prove to be true, which suggest that a European heavyweight is now showing an interest.
With a penchant for a tough tackle and incredible athleticism, it should come as no surprise that Diego Simeone is seeking to bring him to Atletico Madrid this window.
Even with the imminent acquisition of Gabriel Paulista on a free transfer, the funds will remain to potentially pry the 26-year-old from Goodison Park before Thursday’s 11 pm deadline.
It is noted that, whilst there are other suitors, the Englishman has been put ‘strongly’ on their shortlist. This could be one to watch with the window winding down.
How did Ben Godfrey play vs Fulham?
Having impressed against Burnley in what was his first start of the season, Godfrey would not exhibit any rustiness in just his second last night.
The natural centre-back, deployed as a right-back to facilitate Ashley Young moving further up the pitch, was resolute throughout against Willian.
As someone who can tear many full-backs apart, he dealt with the tricky Brazilian well throughout a tough night at Craven Cottage.
As such, he would muster seven clearances and four tackles, made even more impressive given he was somewhat harshly booked after just 28 minutes, via Sofascore.
Journalist Chris Beesley would even praise his match-saving interactions, noting: ‘He made some crucial interceptions to deny both Rodrigo Muniz and Willian’.
Perhaps a showing like this might be enough to force his way back into Dyche’s plans, but the prospect of Champions League football might understandably be too much for the £75k-a-week star to turn down.
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