Patrick Bamford now lined up for early Sheffield United exit as talks underway
Patrick Bamford could join Ipswich Town this month amid continued uncertainty around his future at Sheffield United as his short-term contract comes to an end.
Leeds confirmed Patrick Bamford’s departure from the club in late August with the two parties choosing to mutually cancel his contract after an injury-hit couple of seasons.
Numerous Championship sides including Wrexham were interested in Bamford‘s services before a decision had been made on his future, but he remained a free agent until Sheffield United snapped him up in November.
Bamford has impressed under Chris Wilder so far, with five goals in 10 games and just 488 minutes of action, but it is unclear how much longer he will be at Bramall Lane as his short-term deal nears its expiration date.
His situation has alerted several fellow Championship sides to the possibility of signing him soon, with Ipswich now known to be in the hunt for his services.
Bamford is wanted by Ipswich amid Sheffield United uncertainty
According to a new story from reporter Alan Nixon, via Patreon, Ipswich are “keeping a close eye” on contract talks between Bamford and the Blades.
The Tractor Boys currently sit third in the Championship, and would take him if he decides to leave Bramall Lane, as they eye an immediate return to the Premier League.
Kieran McKenna is reportedly keen to add more firepower to his squad, and while the 32-year-old is settled in Sheffield, he may choose to move on if the right offer comes along.
Wilder wants to keep Bamford but he could be offered better terms at Ipswich
Wilder returned to United for a third spell as their manager in September, and he has been able to lift them out of the relegation zone and into mid-table over the last few months.
Bamford’s goals have offered the Blades a new dimension, and he has also been able to get the best out of the likes of Tom Cannon and Tyrese Campbell.
Wilder insisted last week that they are trying to get him tied down to a longer contract, saying: “We’re confident that we can do something. The feedback we’ve got from Pat is really positive. He knows, as I’ve said before, what we think of him.
“I’m pushing as much as I can. But obviously there’s a negotiation involved in it. And there will be an attraction from other clubs because of what he’s done. So that was the gamble of bringing him in.“
Bamford has clearly settled in well at Bramall Lane, but a move to Ipswich could well tempt him away, considering their better promotion prospects and finances on offer.
Football Insider recently revealed that United are advancing in talks with Bamford over a new deal, and they must get him signed on as soon as possible, before he is free to leave on 11 January.