Godfrey, 26, will enter the final year of his contract after turning down several offers, according to Football Insider. Everton had been hoping to tie him down at some point over the past few months. They also mention that the adaptable defender is still a target for European powerhouses AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund, who have both had a long-standing interest in him.

Godfrey was strongly linked to both Milan and Leeds in January, but Everton decided to keep him at Goodison Park. The England international, who has received two caps, went on to play frequently as his team avoided relegation. Following a brief period of consistent fitness, he has started 12 of the previous 17 games at full back.

Recent reports suggest that Dortmund entered the race with the possibility of a cut-price deal because of the contract situation, and Milan has resurfaced as a potential suitor. Although there hasn’t been any indication of Leeds showing interest again, hearing about contract rejections might persuade the people in charge at Elland Road to take a closer look. Daniel Farke, the manager of Leeds, is familiar with Godfrey because the German played some of Godfrey’s best football when he was at Norwich City. Furthermore, Leeds would have a great option in the adaptable defender, who can play both center back and full back with ease, should they need to prioritize defensive reinforcements.

It’s unclear if Everton will take a chance on Godfrey’s contract expiring or if they will entertain offers at this point. Despite being frustrated by his lack of regular football, Everton manager Sean Dyche insisted the defender remained in his plans in January, amid reports of interest from Leeds. He’s performing incredibly well for us. He’s training really well, remaining alert and prepared, Dyche said. The most challenging thing we’ve had recently is the games program; we’re trying to keep players who aren’t quite ready to start for the first team in the game, but they take care of themselves. He’s prepared and things are going well. I think we can all agree that things are difficult right now. The majority of people are talking outside while the [other] two center halves are playing incredibly well.As a center-half, which I was at one point, it can be difficult because you want to play, but most people are honest enough to realize that even when they see someone playing well, they still need to sit tight. I believe he is aware of that. Although he is an excellent player, he is facing two center halves who are playing exceptionally well.