Patrick Bamford will be buzzing after hearing what Daniel Farke has just agreed at Leeds United. Fans won’t believe this.
Patrick Bamford Likely to Stay at Leeds United Amid Mateo Joseph Exit
Patrick Bamford has long divided opinion among Leeds United supporters, but if he were to leave this summer, there’s little doubt he’d be remembered fondly by most fans.
Now 31, Bamford finds himself at a career crossroads at Elland Road. He didn’t start a single league match last season and failed to register a league goal, making 17 appearances from the bench. A series of injuries hindered his campaign, but his experience and proven track record still carry weight — especially after Leeds’ recent return to the Premier League.
Following promotion, reports suggested that Bamford might be one of the players moved on during Daniel Farke’s squad overhaul. Backed by a £150 million transfer budget courtesy of the 49ers ownership group, Farke is expected to bring in a number of high-calibre signings this summer.
Several strikers have already been linked with a move to West Yorkshire, including Josh Sargent, Beto, Jamie Vardy, and Callum Wilson. There are also suggestions that Brighton could finally be ready to sell long-term target Evan Ferguson.
Mateo Joseph Set for Leeds Exit
However, before any new forwards arrive, one striker looks to be heading out — and it’s not Bamford. Leeds have reportedly agreed to sell Mateo Joseph to Real Betis for £8.5 million. The Spain U21 international is eager to return to his home country, where former Leeds teammate Junior Firpo has just signed on a free transfer.
Joseph is said to be frustrated with his lack of opportunities under Farke, something he hinted at in a recent interview. Reflecting on the season, the 21-year-old said:
“I started playing quite a bit and then went from everything to nothing. It was a blow, and that’s coming off the back of last year, which was also very tough.”
Bamford’s Role Becomes More Crucial
With Joseph on his way out, Leeds find themselves short on centre-forward options. As it stands, Joel Piroe is likely to lead the line next season, with only Bamford remaining as a senior backup — making his departure highly unlikely.
Keeping Bamford isn’t necessarily a bad outcome. He scored an impressive 17 Premier League goals during the 2020/21 season and has previously shown he can deliver at the top level. That said, recent form and ongoing injury concerns mean expectations should be tempered going into the new campaign.
Still, Bamford believes his style suits Premier League football, and with the squad thin up front, he may get the opportunity to prove it. One thing is clear: with Mateo Joseph departing, Patrick Bamford’s immediate future at Leeds looks secure.
