This week, Patrick Bamford has been linked with the exit door at Leeds United ahead of the January transfer window with Serie A side Genoa among his suitors.
Initially, it was claimed that Leeds were eyeing replacements for Bamford ahead of a possible exit come the January window. Then, a report named two clubs eyeing Bamford with a move away from Leeds likely.
It is claimed Serie A side Genoa and cash-rich Wrexham want Bamford. Whether Leeds are willing to cash in on Bamford remains to be seen, given Daniel Farke said Bamford remains “crucial” earlier this month.
Patrick Vieira held talks to take over at Leeds and now he could finally get the chance to have Bamford at Genoa, a move that could see Bamford partner Mario Balotelli up front with Genoa 13th in Serie A.
Leeds should request £8.2m Genoa star in Patrick Bamford deal
Earlier this year, Leeds were actually linked with a move for Koni De Winter. The Belgian actually joined Genoa initially on loan for the 2023-24 season and was signed permanently for £8.2m in the summer.
This season, injury has limited him to just eight games but he will be fit before January arrives. If Genoa are to move for Bamford over the course of the next six weeks, Leeds can use it to their advantage.
They could request that Belgium international De Winter is included in a deal and a possible swap for striker Bamford. Leeds would be losing a long-term Elland Road star, but could bring in a defender.
Leeds may need a centre-back in case Max Wober departs
Certainly, the need for a player like De Winter will increase in January if Max Wober departs. Salzburg are interested in bringing him back, with Salzburg’s sporting director being very vocal in Austrian media.
Rouven Schroder says Salzbury may try a “clever loan” for Wober, while Premier League side Wolves have been touted with a move for Wober. So, the Austrian has options as he struggles to get in the starting XI.
Behind Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk, Wober is Leeds’ only senior centre-back and if he goes, he will need replacing. Leeds then can see Genoa’s interest in Bamford to possibly replace Wober with De Winter.
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