Everton outcast Ben Godfrey is poised to depart Goodison Park this transfer window, and there are a couple of potential destinations already lined up for the centre-half.
Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that mid-table Serie A outfit Genoa are amongst a number of clubs keen on the castaway England international.
However, both clubs are struggling to strike an agreement despite holding direct talks for the defender.
Everton are aware there are plenty of other clubs interested in Godfrey, so they are open to playing the waiting game for better proposals despite their willingness to cut him loose this month.
The Toffees have been docked ten points for breaching the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules, but there could be more punishment on the horizon amid allegations of further infractions.
Everton’s financial predicament could force the club to sanction a big-money exit this month, and a couple of key players have already been linked with a departure.
Amadou Onana continues to attract interest from a host of Premier League sides, including Manchester United, Arsenal, and Newcastle United.
Meanwhile, top scorer Abdoulaye Doucoure has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia amid interest from Steven Gerrard’s Al Ettifaq.
While Everton would naturally want to keep both players, the Toffees would have no problems selling Godfrey, who has struggled to assert himself in Sean Dyche’s plans this season.
Godfrey has only managed 181 minutes of first-team football across all competitions this season. Despite his lack of action, he remains a hot property this winter.
Leeds United are among a number of clubs credited with an interest in Godfrey, with the Premier League promotion-chasing side eager to bolster their defensive unit.
Reports suggest the Yorkshire club would prefer to sign Godfrey on a short-term loan deal, but Everton are leaning towards a permanent exit to ease their financial situation.
Serie A giants AC Milan have also been linked with a move for Godfrey amid their crippling defensive injury crisis.