Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford’s future is under the microscope with two clubs said to be keen on signing the long-standing Elland Road star ahead of the January window.
The 31-year-old has been relegated to third-choice striker at Elland Road this season. Having been unable to take part in pre-season due to injury, Mateo Joseph leaped ahead of the one-time England striker.
It has seen Daniel Farke pick and choose between Joseph and Joel Piroe this season, with Bamford yet to start a single league game. Indeed, Bamford has only made eight Championship appearances this season.
Reports this week emerged regarding Bamford’s future ahead of the January window. Initially, it said that Bamford could leave in January, and Dor Turgeman and Louie Barry are being lined up as replacements.
Leeds United’s stance on Patrick Bamford amid January reports
Then, it was claimed Genoa and Wrexham want Bamford. Patrick Vieira is keen on adding to his strikers, despite 13th-placed Genoa already boasting Mario Balotelli and former Leeds man Caleb Ekuban.
Wrexham meanwhile have the likes of Paul Mullin, Steven Fletcher and Jack Marriott. But the Welsh side have Hollywood owners and the celebrity appeal may tempt Bamford, with his Leeds future in doubt.
Bamford has 18 months left on his £40k-a-week contract, and Graeme Bailey has told LeedsUnited.News that Leeds would be open to offers for Bamford – but are not actively trying to get rid of him either.
“He’s on a lot of money. Too much money for Genoa for sure. I don’t see in what any world – of course, Wrexham can afford him – but we’re talking about a player on Premier League money. I don’t see what realm Wrexham can entertain Bamford. Birmingham? Sure. But they have Jay Stansfield on £40k-a-week.
“People don’t realise how much Bamford is on. Huge money. From what I understand, Leeds would be open to offers. But they’re not trying to kick him out the door. They know that if he scores two goals, they could be massive towards promotion. Balancing the books is a concern, but it’s all eyes on promotion.
“Does Bamford help Leeds get promoted? Yes. They don’t want anyone out that can impact promotion. It’s a happy camp. We’re not talking Gnonto or Sinisterra, threatening strikes. Bamford’s not like that, he’s a good player for the camp. Leeds would consider it, but they’re not desperately trying to get rid of him.”
What Daniel Farke has said about interest in Leeds players…
The Leeds manager was speaking in his press conference on Thursday ahead of Saturday’s clash against Oxford United. He was asked if he was aware of any interest in his players ahead of the January window.
Farke said he’s not interested until after January 4, the last of a run of games over the Christmas period when The Whites take on Hull City. After that, Leeds then take on local side Harrogate on January 11.
Until then, no offers or players desiring to leave next month will be entertained. Farke is keen on full focus until after that game and then matters can be discussed, so it is unlikely to know if “magnificent” Bamford will go.
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