Aston Villa Sign Everton Defender Ben Godfrey in £25m Deal

Aston Villa have completed the signing of defender Ben Godfrey from Everton for a reported £25m fee. The 28-year-old has signed a four-year contract with the Premier League club, who confirmed the deal on Thursday afternoon.

Godfrey's move comes after establishing himself as a consistent performer at Everton, making over 120 appearances since joining from Norwich City in 2020. The England international's ability to play across the backline and his recovery pace made him a target for Villa manager Unai Emery as he seeks to bolster defensive options following last season's Europa Conference League qualification.

Everton, who narrowly avoided relegation last season, are understood to have been open to offers for players as they work within financial constraints. The £25m fee represents significant business for a defender entering the final two years of his previous contract.

For Aston Villa, the acquisition aligns with their strategy of recruiting experienced Premier League players following their return to European competition. Godfrey becomes their third summer signing after midfielder Ross Barkley and right-back Matty Cash.

The transfer is expected to be followed by further defensive reinforcements at Villa Park, with sources indicating negotiations continue for a left-sided center-back. Everton are reportedly targeting young Chelsea defender Levi Colwill as part of their rebuild under new manager Sean Dyche.