£20m Leicester target linked with Premier League rivals in major setback for Ruud van Nistelrooy – journalist
Leicester City face potential setback in early January transfer pursuit.
For Leicester City to secure their Premier League status, manager Ruud van Nistelrooy must successfully navigate the January transfer window.
The Foxes face Aston Villa with the league’s joint-worst defensive record, having conceded 42 goals. Unsurprisingly, they are targeting several centre-backs to bolster their backline.
Among their early pursuits was Manchester United’s Harry Maguire, but his recent contract extension at Old Trafford has ruled out a move.
However, Maguire isn’t the only English defender on Leicester’s radar. Ben Godfrey, currently playing in Italy, has caught their attention.
Reports last month suggested Leicester were interested in signing the 26-year-old from Atalanta.
Despite joining from Everton for £10 million in the summer, Godfrey has played only 22 minutes in Serie A this season.
Atalanta is now reportedly open to letting him leave in January, providing Leicester with an opportunity.
Yet, this pursuit faces stiff competition, as Ipswich Town is in talks to secure Godfrey on loan, according to transfer journalist Ben Jacobs.
A move to Ipswich could appeal to Godfrey, who previously spent four years with their East Anglian rivals Norwich City.
Such a transfer would be a blow for Leicester, as strengthening Ipswich would aid a direct rival in the relegation battle.
Ipswich currently sit just one point and one place above the Foxes, making this potential signing even more critical.
For van Nistelrooy, Godfrey represents an ideal solution to Leicester’s defensive woes.
The defender’s attributes, including his recovery pace and ability to handle fast attackers, have been lauded by figures such as Rio Ferdinand, who once described him as “outstanding.”
Godfrey’s game-reading skills and well-timed tackles further enhance his value.
Statistically, Godfrey offers a robust defensive presence, averaging per 90 minutes over the past year:
2.44 tackles
1.18 interceptions
1.18 blocks
4.54 clearances
2.02 aerials won
With Caleb Okoli potentially departing and both Conor Coady and Jannik Vestergaard struggling to perform at the highest level, van Nistelrooy cannot afford to miss out on Godfrey.
Securing the Englishman would not only strengthen Leicester’s defense but also thwart Ipswich’s plans, providing the Foxes with a crucial edge in their fight for survival.
