The hierarchy at Wolverhampton Wanderers have been handed a boost in their pursuit of former Everton and Norwich City defender Ben Godfrey after it was confirmed he will be allowed Atalanta.

Godfrey joined the Italian club last summer but has failed to make an impact, only appearing five times this season for Gian Piero Gasperini's side who are currently top of Serie A.

Wolves are said to be interested in the Englishman's signature this January transfer window as they look to strengthen the defensive areas ahead of a relegation dogfight in the second half of the campaign. Vítor Pereira's side face competition from fellow Premier League sides Nottingham Forest and Leicester City as well as other Italian outfit AS Roma.

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Journalist Fabrizio Romano has issued an update regarding centre back's status on X: "Former Everton defender Ben Godrey can leave Atalanta in January as he’s no longer key for their project. Discussions to follow as Godfrey is not even in squad list for the Super Cup."

Godfrey joined Atalanta for a reported £11 million from the Toffees and is valued at €8 million (£6.6m) by TransferMarkt.

Lemina exit rumours circle

Elsewhere, 2023/24 Supporters' Player of the Year Mario Lemina has been linked with a surprise exit away from the club after struggling during the first half of Wolves' campaign.

The Old Gold have been involved in a scrap at the bottom of the table after a torrid start to the season under Gary O'Neil. Their form has picked up, though, in their first three games under new boss Pereira with two wins, over Leicester and Manchester United, and a draw against Tottenham Hotspur last Sunday.

Lemina began the season as Wolves' club captain following an impressive first 18 months in the Black Country, however he was recently stripped of the captaincy last month following an altercation with West Ham United' Jarrod Bowen.

The Gabonese midfielder has now been linked with a move to the Middle East, with manager Pereira's previous club Al-Shabab said to be interested in his services according to journalist Ahmed Aljadi.

Lemina's contract is set to expire this summer so Wolves' could choose to try and cash in before letting the 31-year-old leave for free upon the expiry.

Danso interest continues

Sky Sports have confirmed that Wolves' primary target for the January window is Lens' Kevin Danso.

The defender, who has Premier League experience after spending time at Southampton during the 2019/20 season, is top of their list of defensive reinforcements as they look to help Pereira in his efforts to secure survival in the top tier.

Wolves have conceded the joint-most goals (42) in the Premier League so far this season along with Leicester.

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