Liverpool suffer blow in pursuit of ‘exceptional’ Leeds star

Matt Stead
Patrick Bamford reacts against Liverpool

Patrick Bamford extended his contract at Leeds last summer to the possible frustration of Liverpool.

Bamford has been a revelation in the Premier League this season, scoring 15 goals and providing eight assists for Marcelo Bielsa’s impressive side.

There has been no better player outside the Big Six this campaign than the 27-year-old, who has shone despite disappointing in the top flight previously with Crystal Palace, Norwich, Burnley and Middlesbrough.

It was reported in January that Leeds planned to reward Bamford for his performances with a new contract, with his deal expected to expire in summer 2022.

But The Athletic have pointed out that the forward signed a one-year deal extension last year.

‘A careful look at the Football Association’s intermediary transactions list published in March – covering February 1, 2020, to February 1, 2021 – shows an “updated registration” for Bamford,” David Ornstein writes.

‘It seems to have gone under the radar but The Athletic has learned that last summer the 27-year-old signed a one-year contract extension that means he is actually tied to Leeds until June 2023.’

It is added that Bamford’s displays ‘have not gone unnoticed’ by ‘several clubs’, among them Liverpool, who are ‘believed to admire’ him.

The updated terms ‘would not prevent him from being sold if a suitable bid arrived,’ but they do strengthen the position of Leeds if offers come in.

Jurgen Klopp openly praised the forward before the two clubs drew 1-1 in April.

Patrick Bamford celebrates

“What a player, Bamford!” he said. “I can remember, I’m pretty sure before the season I heard on talkSPORT, people saying that Leeds need a proper goalscorer, Bamford is not good enough, stuff like this. I’m so happy that he could prove them all wrong!

“He’s an exceptional player. The work-rate is outstanding, and he still plays the football he plays on top of that, and scores goals. That’s rare.

“They have a lot of interesting players, but Bamford, I’m really happy for him. I dont know him, obviously, but it’s a nice career, a little bit later than others but still very impressive.”

Klopp has also been advised to move for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, who netted a hat-trick against the reigning Premier League champions in October.