Newcastle: Major update on £25m star linked with St James' Park

Everton defender Ben Godfrey is not one of Newcastle United‘s main targets for the upcoming transfer window, says journalist Dean Jones.

The 24-year-old has been linked with a move to St James’ Park, but it appears that he is not currently a priority for the Tyneside club.

According to the Daily Mirror, Eddie Howe is keen to strengthen Newcastle’s defence this summer and has identified Godfrey as a possible option to come in.

The Englishman has been a regular for Everton this season when fit, making 19 appearances in the Premier League.

He missed the Toffees’ February fixtures due to injury but has since returned to action, recently helping his side to beat Howe’s men in a 1-0 win at Goodison Park.

Everton signed Godfrey from Norwich City in a £25m deal back in 2020, and the defender has a contract until 2025, so it is unlikely that he would come cheap.

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Jones is not expecting the Magpies to make a move for Godfrey this summer, telling GIVEMESPORT that he is not one of their primary targets.

Speaking to GMS, the transfer insider said: “I don’t personally think that Ben Godfrey is one of their main targets for this transfer window. I’ve checked it out and of all the names that I’m hearing, he’s not really one of them.”

While Godfrey may not be high up on Newcastle’s list right now, the former Norwich man could still be a really good signing for them.

Capable of playing in central defence and at left-back, he is someone who would bring versatility to Howe’s backline.

Godfrey is also a player who is able to lead. Speaking about his role in the England U21 squad last year, the Everton star said (via FourFourTwo): “Being a leader is something that