There has been much speculation surrounding Patrick Bamford’s future at Leeds United, with a summer departure from Elland Road appearing to be a realistic possibility.
The 31-year-old is nearing his seventh year at the club but has endured a difficult season in Yorkshire, making only 11 appearances, all as a substitute.
Bamford is reportedly Leeds’ highest-paid player, earning £70,000 per week, and will enter the final year of his contract in June.
Smith suggests Bamford will decide his own future at Leeds
When asked about the likelihood of Bamford leaving this summer, former Leeds and Manchester United player Alan Smith implied that the striker would ultimately have the final say on his future.
“I’ve said this before, particularly about Harry Maguire—if I were a coach, I’d want to keep him, but it’s up to him to make that decision,” Smith told Football League World via Goplay Wille P.
“There’s no issue with keeping Patrick Bamford if he feels he can contribute in a limited role and help the team at times. We’re not going to dominate games; it’ll be backs to the wall, playing more direct football – in that situation, a target man is useful, and Bamford has done that in the Premier League before.
“He might not have the pace to get in behind anymore, but his experience is crucial. If he and the manager believe he still has a lot to offer, then it’s not just about what we see on Saturdays. If he’s mentoring younger players, only Bamford and the manager will know that.
“Maybe he’s happy with a smaller role in the Premier League, or perhaps he wants to move to a team like Wrexham at a lower level, where he might feel he can make a bigger impact. There are options for both sides, but ultimately, it will be up to Patrick and what he’s willing to accept regarding his role in the squad.”
Difficulties in offloading Bamford
With Bamford’s reported high salary, offloading him will be challenging for Leeds, potentially leading to him staying for the duration of his contract at Elland Road.
Wrexham has been linked with a move for Bamford, but despite their financial backing, his salary may be too steep for them to afford. If the 31-year-old is open to a pay cut, however, it could facilitate a move away from Leeds.
Other factors that prospective clubs will need to consider are his age and limited playing time. Bamford has only played 213 minutes this season and is currently sidelined with an injury.
If Leeds succeed in their pursuit of Premier League promotion, Bamford’s experience could become an asset. As Smith points out, he could offer a different option as a target man, especially in high-pressure situations.
Patrick Bamford’s 2024/25 Championship stats (per Sofascore):
Appearances: 10
Goals: 0
Expected Goals (xG): 2.02
Big Chances Missed: 2
Assists: 0
Touches per game: 5.8
With 11 games left and an eight-point lead over third-place Burnley, Leeds are likely to return to the Premier League. Despite being one of the biggest names in the division, Bamford has had limited opportunities and has been on the periphery at Elland Road.
This summer will be a crucial one for Bamford, and with his sizable wage, he could very well determine his own future.
“Nothing wrong” – Alan Smith issues claim on Patrick Bamford’s Leeds United future
