Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford is reportedly on Blackburn Rovers manager John Eustace’s radar as part of a broader list of potential targets.
While Leeds boss Daniel Farke is primarily focused on preparations for Sunday’s clash with Sheffield Wednesday, he’s likely also keeping an eye on potential transfer activity.
Despite the club’s insistence that January will be a quiet month, there are still a few areas in the squad that may need addressing.
Journalist Alan Nixon shared on his Patreon that Blackburn Rovers are monitoring Bamford for a potential move. The 31-year-old striker, however, is sidelined for the rest of January due to a hamstring injury sustained against Blackburn on New Year’s Day.
Despite this setback, the playoff hopefuls are keen to strengthen their squad as they aim to cement their spot in the top six.
Bamford has had limited impact in the Championship this season, playing just 123 minutes without scoring or assisting. Last season, he netted eight goals, all in the latter half of the campaign.
When asked about the possibility of signing Bamford, Eustace remained tight-lipped but did confirm that the player is being monitored as a potential addition to the squad this month.
He said (via the Lancashire Telegraph):
“Patrick is a very good player, I played with him at Derby, a long time ago when he started out.
“He’s a consistent performer at this level, he plays for a huge club in Leeds. But there will be lots of names thrown towards me and I’ll just say they’re good players.
“You’d have to ask the club. He’s a player on a long list that we have looked at and we’ll have to see.”
Leeds United’s apparent interest in strikers this January could hint at the 49ers’ willingness to part ways with Patrick Bamford.
However, it’s unlikely that Daniel Farke sees it that way, especially with Joe Gelhardt heading out on loan this week. Leeds need greater consistency from their attacking options, and neither Joel Piroe nor Mateo Joseph has been fully delivering on that front.
While Piroe’s 10 goals and five assists are undeniably impressive, his style of play highlights the need for a true focal point up front—a classic number nine that Leeds might look to secure this month.
For Bamford, if a move does happen, it could be the fresh start he needs. His prospects of rediscovering his best form at Elland Road appear slim, making this a potentially ideal time for a change.
