Rangers capturing former Everton defender Ben Godfrey on Monday already looked like a statement of intent from Derek McInnes. However, fascinating behind-the-scenes details have now emerged showing exactly how much the 28-year-old wanted to make the move to Glasgow happen.
According to an insightful update from Chris Jack at the Rangers Review, Godfrey showed immense desire to move to Govan by making a significant personal financial sacrifice to ensure the season-long loan went through.
In a modern football landscape where players are routinely accused of prioritising their bank balance above all else, Godfrey’s elite mentality was laid bare.
By choosing to take a direct wage cut to fit cleanly inside Rangers’ salary structure, the centre-back proved he is entirely driven by a hunger for silverware rather than a comfortable payday under the radar.
What are your expectations for Ben Godfrey next season?
This is his fourth loan in less than two years…
Rangers pull off major coup to see off heavy European interest
The board’s ability to structure this deal looks more impressive by the minute when you look at the calibre of clubs left trailing in their wake.
Godfrey was certainly not short of options across the continent. Ligue 1 heavyweights Lille, ironically managed by Davide Ancelotti, the son of the man who originally signed him for Everton in a £20million deal, were interested in taking him to France.
Alongside them, Danish giants FC Copenhagen and Greek outfit AEK Athens were also concrete admirers.
Despite the alluring pull of European regular sides, Godfrey’s firm preference was a high-profile return to the UK after spending the tail-end of last season on loan at Brondby from parent club Atalanta.
When McInnes pitched his tactical vision for Rangers, the former Norwich City defender’s elite mindset was triggered, and he was completely hooked on the project.
Ibrox board negotiate flawless financial package
The recruitment team deserve immense credit for leveraging Godfrey’s desire into a virtually risk-free financial masterpiece.
What would your concerns be about Derek McInnes replacing Danny Rohl?
Rangers managed to convince Atalanta to sanction the loan with absolutely no loan fee attached.
Crucially, the club have also locked down a £3.8m optional permanent fee for next summer.
Because Godfrey was willing to compromise on his personal terms to cross the finish line, the Andrew Cavenagh-led club have landed an elite, Premier League-proven asset on a budget that leaves the board with absolute control over his long-term future.
If his application on the pitch matches the elite hunger he has shown behind the scenes, McInnes may have just secured the foundational pillar of his new-look Rangers era.
