Journalist Graeme Bailey has suggested that Patrick Bamford could potentially leave Leeds United this summer, amidst speculation about the club’s need to generate funds and balance their finances.
Following their play-off final defeat to Southampton, Leeds are expected to assess their squad and make changes to ensure financial stability and compliance with financial rules.
With reports suggesting that the club may need to raise up to £100m through player sales, several players are likely to attract interest, including Crysencio Summerville, Willy Gnonto, and Archie Gray.
Daniel Farke may consider selling these valuable assets to boost his transfer budget, and Ethan Ampadu could also attract interest after a decent first season at Elland Road.
In addition to transfer fees, Leeds will also need to assess their wage bill and potentially move high earners on, including Bamford, who is likely to be on a significant salary given his importance to the team.
While selling Bamford could generate a decent amount, considering he has two years left on his deal, his age (30) and limited resale value may mean that Leeds focus on selling younger players like Summerville, Gnonto, and Gray, who could command higher fees.
Bailey believes that Bamford could potentially be sold to a bottom-of-the-table Premier League team, but questions whether there’s any point in selling him if Leeds need to make up a significant financial deficit.
With younger strikers like Joel Piroe and Mateo Joseph impressing, Bamford’s departure wouldn’t be a shock, but it feels like he still has unfinished business at Elland Road. Ultimately, Leeds will need to weigh up their financial needs and squad assessments before making any decisions about Bamford’s future.