Updated Ben Godfrey has left Everton it has now been confirmed after Atalanta had an improved offer of £11m accepted by the Blues for the defender.
The Italian club had an initial bid closer to £8m turned down on Wednesday but returned with improved terms believed to be worth £11m plus performance-related add-ons.
Having agreed a personal package with the player himself, the two clubs agreed a fee yesterday that reportedly includes a sell-on fee, with Godfrey traveling to Bergamo today to undergo a medical.
Godfrey was entering the final year of his contract and was seeking assurances of more guaranteed playing time and though Everton were thought to value him closer to £15m.
According to The Athletic‘s David Ornstein, the Club received a bid close to that figure from another un-named club but the consensus appears to be that the player wanted the move to Atalanta.
The former York defender was signed from Norwich City for £20m four years ago but his time at Everton has been disrupted by injury and a spell suffering from long Covid.
Valued by Sean Dyche for his versatility, he made 15 Premier League appearances last season but now links up with former Everton winger Ademola Lookman at the newly-minted Europa League champions.
Following his departure, Godfrey posted a heartfelt message to Evertonians on social media:
“I joined the club in 2020, everyone at the club – fans, staff and players made me feel welcome.
“I’ve made great memories at this football club and will always appreciate my time here. Now it’s time to go onto my next challenge.
“Thanks for all your support. All the best Everton. ”