What Sean Dyche said about Ben Godfrey's Everton situation amid Sheffield United, Leeds United transfer links

Ben Godfrey is "frustrated" at his lack of minutes at Everton, boss Sean Dyche has admitted, amid late-window transfer links with Sheffield United and Leeds United. The £20m signing has played just three times this season, with United in the market for centre-half cover and competition for the second half of the season.

United have also been linked with Godfrey's Everton teammate Mason Holgate, who is enduring a similarly frustrating time on the periphery at Championship promotion-chasers Southampton. Joe Worrall of Nottingham Forest is another potential target ahead of next Thursday's transfer deadline.

A one-cap England international, Godfrey has struggled to dislodge James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite as Dyche's first-choice centre-half pairing and speaking ahead of his side's FA Cup clash with Luton this weekend, the Toffees boss was asked about the 26-year-old's Goodison Park situation.

“Ben is going along well," Dyche said. "His attitude is outstanding here, he’s well thought of in the group. He hasn’t had as much game-time, he’s frustrated by that, obviously. I must make it clear, he's not frustrated with me and the situation, he’s frustrated not to play. But he is a fantastic pro and continues pushing himself and the group. And that’s what kind of guy he is."

Injury complicates United transfer decision as boss drops Grbic hint

Godfrey's Everton progress has been heavily impacted by both injury and illness, having suffered a broken leg after recovering from long Covid. With funds tight, United's approach would most likely be a loan but clubs in Europe, including Atalanta, have also been linked with a permanent move which may appeal more to the player - and to Everton amid their FFP struggles.