Phil Hay says 29-year-old’s Leeds future is in doubt, he could affect 49ers business

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The Athletic’s Phil Hay has told The Square Ball podcast that Patrick Bamford could leave Leeds United this summer and a decision on his future will affect how much business The 49ers do, when it comes to signing a new striker.

Bamford, 29, has spent the last five years at Elland Road – but last season it did not go to plan. More injuries during the first half of the season, and then really struggling for form when Leeds needed the forward to kick into gear.

Missing a sitter against Leicester to win 2-1, Bamford earned plenty of criticism on social media – seeing him delete his Twitter account. Then, a penalty miss to go 2-0 up against Newcastle. Death threats, for himself and his family.

So, it would be perfectly understandable if Bamford chose to leave Leeds. He is expected to be in Oslo right now ahead of Wednesday’s game against Manchester United. The Mail said he is open to a Leeds exit this summer.

Hay has now given an update. He says that there is potential for Bamford to leave Leeds and his decision on a move away from Elland Road will dictate what the 49ers do in the transfer window – when it comes to signing a striker.

“It is a position they have to address. But what they do, how much they do, will be dictated by what happens with Bamford. Bamford is under contract until 2026. What happens there is more complicated,” Hay said, on Bamford

“It will depend on how he is feeling. It wasn’t a great season for him last season, and there is friction between himself and the fans. Where does that go? The answer to that question will dictate what Leeds do,” he added.

Hay: Bamford could leave Leeds and decision affects 49ers business

Is it time for Bamford to go? You could argue both sides. Bamford would score goals in the Championship next season, he easily has the quality to do so. But the one-time England man cannot be relied upon in terms of fitness.

Rodrigo is set to go and Georginio Rutter will play out wide. Mateo Joseph and Joe Gelhardt are options – but it is likely that Bamford remains first choice, and could start in Oslo. The next few weeks will see a Bamford decision.