When Carlo Ancelotti describes a defender as "really fantastic", Rangers supporters are entitled to take notice.
The legendary Italian manager worked closely with Ben Godfrey during his time at Everton and quickly became convinced he had inherited one of the Premier League's most complete defenders.
"It was a surprise for me because I knew him, but not a lot, and I found a really fantastic defender because he has all the quality that a defender needs," Ancelotti said.
"He's powerful, he has a lot of energy, tactically intelligent, really aggressive in the duels and so he can play in different positions."
Those qualities will now be on display at Ibrox after Rangers confirmed the signing of Godfrey on a season-long loan from Atalanta, with an option to make the move permanent next summer.
The 28-year-old arrives as Derek McInnes continues to strengthen his squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, with the experienced defender handed the famous number four shirt.
Godfrey joins Rangers boasting more than 100 Premier League appearances following spells with Norwich City and Everton, while he has also earned senior England caps during his career.
After beginning his career with hometown club York City, Godfrey progressed through Norwich City's academy before becoming a key figure in the Canaries' Championship-winning promotion campaign in 2018/19.
His performances earned Everton a £25 million move in 2020, where he established himself as a regular in the Premier League before completing a switch to Serie A side Atalanta four years later.
The defender spent the second half of last season on loan with Danish Superliga outfit Brøndby and will now look to reignite his career in Glasgow.
Speaking after completing his move, Godfrey admitted the opportunity to represent Rangers was one he could not turn down.
💙 We can today announce the signing of Ben Godfrey on a season-long loan from Atalanta, subject to international clearance.
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) June 29, 2026
The 28-year-old joins ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, with an option to make the deal permanent next summer.
👉 https://t.co/refuVfgeY4 pic.twitter.com/vriXRnbPkR
"I am buzzing, I am really happy to be here," he told the club's official website.
"I know the size of the club so it is a massive honour to be wearing the shirt this season, and I can't wait to get started.
"I am looking forward to meeting the boys and hopefully helping this club achieve what it deserves, which is silverware and exciting times."
McInnes believes Rangers have added proven quality and valuable experience to his defensive options.
"Ben is a player who has competed at a very high level throughout his career," the Rangers manager said.
"He's played in the Premier League, been involved with England, and brings a lot of experience with him.
"He's a strong, athletic defender with good qualities both on and off the ball, and we believe he can add a lot to the squad.
"We're pleased to get him in, and I'm looking forward to working with him in the season ahead."
Godfrey becomes the third addition to McInnes' summer rebuild and the second since his appointment, as Rangers continue shaping a squad capable of mounting a sustained challenge for domestic silverware and making an impact in Europe.
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