LIVERPOOL have been linked with a swoop for Patrick Bamford – but they will have to pay more than expected after the Leeds star’s secret new deal.
The 27-year-old striker has shone in the Premier League this term for Marcelo Bielsa’s side despite his previous poor spells at Crystal Palace, Norwich, Burnley and Middlesbrough.
Bamford has scored 15 and provided eight assists for the Whites, leading to speculation over a potential England call-up.
The Athletic have claimed his performances ‘have not gone unnoticed’ by ‘several clubs’, with Liverpool ‘believed to admire’ him.
Bamford’s contract was widely-thought to be expiring at Elland Road next summer – which could have increased pressure to sell him at the end of the current campaign.
However, the publication claims the former Chelsea ace has actually penned a 12-month extension LAST YEAR.
That has secured Bamford’s future at Leeds until at least 2023.
Today’s report also states that ‘would not prevent him from being sold if a suitable bid arrived’ over the summer.
However, Leeds’ position has now been strengthened due to the extension.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has openly spoken of his admiration for the forward.
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And he heaped praise on him before his side drew 1-1 with Leeds last month.
Klopp said. “What a player, Bamford! 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 don’t know him, obviously, but it’s a nice career, a little bit later than others but still very impressive.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
