Sheffield United are set to complete the loan signing of Ben Godfrey after the defender was spotted flying into England on Wednesday evening.
The 27-year-old centre-back, currently on the books at Atalanta, is expected to finalise a move to Bramall Lane in the coming days.
Godfrey Poised for Blades Switch
Reports from Italy suggest that Godfrey, who left Everton for Atalanta in June 2024, has struggled to fully establish himself in Serie A. He was photographed at Milan’s Linate airport ahead of a flight to England, with paperwork and medical checks now set to follow.
The former Norwich City defender joined Atalanta under Gian Piero Gasperini, but his time in Bergamo was disrupted by the club’s demanding tactical setup. Gasperini has since moved to Roma, and with Godfrey not considered central to Atalanta’s plans, a temporary return to English football has emerged as the solution.
According to transfer specialist Gianluca Di Marzio, the Blades have agreed terms for a season-long loan, beating rival clubs to his signature. The deal would strengthen Chris Wilder’s defensive options as Sheffield United look to push for promotion following last season’s relegation from the Premier League.
“The 27-year-old central defender is set to move to Sheffield United on loan for the rest of the season. Godfrey is even pictured at Milan’s Linate airport, and he’s flying into England right now,” Di Marzio reported.
Godfrey began his professional career with Norwich before joining Everton in 2020, making over 70 appearances for the Toffees. A £25m transfer to Atalanta was seen as a fresh challenge, but opportunities in Italy proved limited. His return to the EFL could provide a platform to revive his career while offering the Blades valuable Premier League experience in their back line.
Writer’s View
This potential move appears to suit all parties. Atalanta secure game time for a player outside their immediate plans, while Sheffield United gain a defender with proven top-flight experience and the versatility to operate across the back four.
Godfrey’s athleticism and reading of the game could make him a standout figure in the Championship, particularly if he regains the confidence that saw him break through at Norwich. For Wilder, who has been vocal about the need for reinforcements, this could be one of the most significant additions of the summer window.
