Former Premier League star ‘prepared to give up Serie A title hopes in order to secure top-flight return’ following £10m summer exit

A former Premier League star is open to a return, as he has struggled for game time in Serie A since his summer move to Atalanta, according to a report.

The 26-year-old left Everton for the Italian giants in June for a £10million fee but has played just four games since.

His last league appearance came in August, almost 120 days ago, and he has only logged 66 minutes of action this campaign.

Atalanta have enjoyed a surprisingly successful season, sitting top of the table, after finishing fourth place and 25 points behind Serie A champions Inter Milan last season.

However, it seems that Ben Godfrey is prepared to choose regular playing time over the chance of collecting a token winners medal in May.

The Sun report that Wolves and Nottingham Forest are leading the race to secure the centre back’s talents.

Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has picked Godfrey on the bench for 18 straight games

His Atalanta side lie first in the Serie A table after 16 games played, ahead of Napoli in second

Godfrey made 90 appearances during his time at Everton and has two senior caps for England, both of which came in 2021.

He took to social media after his move to Atalanta, expressing his excitement to begin a new chapter and thanking everyone at Everton for supporting him throughout his journey.

‘My new home @atalantabc. So happy to be here, looking forward to meeting everyone at the club! Forza Atalanta!!!’ Godfrey said.

‘When I joined the club in 2020, everyone at the club from fans, staff and players made me feel welcome,’ he said in another post addressed to Everton fans.

‘I’ve made some great memories at this football club and will always appreciate my time there. And I feel like I can leave knowing I gave 100%.

‘Now it’s time to move onto my next challenge. Thank you for all your support. All the best Everton.’

Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini has not publicly expressed any dissatisfaction towards his new signing, but the Englishman’s lack of playing time sends a clear message.