Everton could lose England star on free transfer after new contract snub as Champions League giants circle

BEN GODFREY could leave Everton on a free after rejecting several new contract offers.

SunSport exclusively revealed last week that AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund are leading the chase for the 26-year-old defender.

Godfrey has just 12 months left on his Goodison Park deal.

But, after turning down the new terms to extend his contract beyond next summer, the £10million-rated star is in line to leave without a transfer fee.

The versatile ex-Norwich defender will be able to speak to foreign clubs from January unless Everton improve their offer.

The interest from Serie A giants Milan and Bundesliga big-hitters Dortmund in Godfrey is long-standing.

But Everton boss Sean Dyche was reluctant to let Godfrey leave as they fought relegation last season.

Godfrey impressed for Dyche's men in the second half of the season and became a regular starter, making 13 of his 16 appearances.

Everton eventually staved off any threat of dropping into the Championship and finished 15th in the table.

But the Toffees face a firesale of players as they battle financial peril following 777 partners' recent takeover collapse.

Godfrey has been twice capped by England and also played for the U21 side.

He signed for the club from Norwich in a £25million deal back in 2020 when Dortmund first registered their interest.