Dyche could instantly replace Godfrey in Everton move for “humble” £42k-p/w colossus – opinion

Everton Football Club is poised to make a significant move in the transfer market, replacing Ben Godfrey with Federico Gatti. Godfrey, the England youth international, is set to complete a move to Atalanta, with the Serie A side agreeing to a deal worth €10m (£8.5m) plus €2m (£1.7m) in add-ons.

According to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, Godfrey was due to undergo a medical on Monday, paving the way for his departure from Goodison Park. The 26-year-old centre-back has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under Sean Dyche, making just 15 appearances in the Premier League last season.With Godfrey’s departure imminent, Everton are turning their attention to Juventus defender Federico Gatti. The Italy international is a versatile defender who can play at centre-back, right-back, or on the right of a back three, making him an ideal replacement for Godfrey.Gatti’s statistics in Serie A last season suggest he could be an upgrade on Godfrey.

He won 60% of his aerial duels and completed 86% of his attempted passes, indicating he is stronger out of possession and more reliable on the ball than Godfrey.The Everton target also has progressive qualities in possession, making 4.16 progressive passes and 1.77 progressive carries per 90 minutes in Serie A last season. This is more frequent than both James Tarkowski and Godfrey, suggesting Gatti could offer greater competition for Tarkowski’s starting spot.At 26, Gatti is entering his prime, while Tarkowski turns 32 later this year.

This makes Gatti a more attractive long-term option for Everton, who could potentially partner him with Jarrad Branthwaite in the future.Everton’s interest in Gatti is not surprising, given his impressive performances for Juventus last season. The club will need to act quickly to secure a deal, with Newcastle United also reportedly interested in the Italy international.

In conclusion, Everton’s decision to sell Godfrey and replace him with Gatti makes sense from both a financial and footballing perspective. Gatti’s versatility, aerial ability, and progressive qualities in possession make him an ideal replacement for Godfrey, and his age and potential suggest he could be a long-term solution for Everton’s defence.