Leeds may be forced to re-sign Patrick Bamford after embarrassing developments

Patrick Bamford leaving Leeds United was the headline news in the lattr stages of the summer transfer window.

Despite calls for several new attacking signings from Daniel Farke, Leeds’ signing of James Justin was the last deal completed on 25 August.

That left a week of the window to conduct more business, but Adam Underwood and the 49ers Enterprises simply let down all Leeds fans.

It has even reached the point where Bamford would actually have a spot in the squad if still here.

Patrick Bamford playing for Leeds United in their white strip
Credit: Imago

Leeds United to re-sign Patrick Bamford?

Bamford officially left Leeds as a free agent on 28 August.

Following that, Farke admitted that it would be hard to avoid relegation in the Premier League if new signings are not delivered in the final third.

Given he was a high earner with severe recent injury problems, many fans didn’t have an issue with the decision to let Bamford leave Elland Road.

However, the money saved was used on two free agents who have experienced similar problems in Lukas Nmecha and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

With Joel Piroe already struggling, would it be the worst thing to get Bamford back on a reduced special contract, given he has been there and done it at the top level?

Daniel Farke with his head in his hands on Elland Road touchline
Credit: Imago

Who is the best striker for Leeds United?

Bamford has proven over the years that he can hold the ball up against most defences, has a turn of pace that others lack and can find the back of the net if given the service.

Looking at stats from their most recent successful seasons, it is clear that Piroe is the only one of the four to consistently stay fit enough.

Forgetting that, Bamford delivered when fit for the full season, involved in 24 Premier League goals, with Calvert-Lewin and Nmecha lacking behind.

Bamford 20/21Piroe 24/25Calvert-Lewin 23/24Nmecha 22/23
Starts37362610
Goals171974
Assists7720
(Credit: WhoScored)

Both Nmecha and Calvert-Lewin have looked positive in recent cameos, and do look better than Bamford on a simple eye test, but Farke may live to regret giving the cold shoulder to a trusted player when he is most needed.

While Leeds fans may find the mere suggestion of a return for Bamford enough to make them shiver, is this how bad the 49ers have let things slide?

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