Three clubs, including two Championship promotion contenders, are interested in signing Chelsea striker Patrick Bamford. The Telegraph understands that the Stamford Bridge club are willing to sell the young forward, especially as they are closing in on the signing of Corinthians striker Alexandre Pato.
In addition to Premier League strugglers Norwich City, Bamford’s former club Middlesbrough and also Hull City have expressed an interest in signing him. Steve Bruce supposedly favours a loan move however according to The Mirror. Interestingly, Chelsea are only willing to sell if there is a buy-back clause inserted into any contract he has with any potential new club.
The 22-year-old is certainly no stranger to the Championship and is well-used to finding the back of the net at that level as well. Not only that, he is the reigning Championship Player of the Season, following his impressive displays at the Riverside Stadium last season. Perhaps that could push Boro to the top of the queue, although they are supposedly interested in signing Fulham striker Ross McCormack as well.
Bruce is also keen on improving his Hull squad this month, whilst he is also desperate to ensure he doesn’t lose any of his key players. Signing Bamford would certainly ease the pressure on top scorer and star striker Abel Hernandez. The ex-Sunderland manager is also aware of the importance of strengthening whilst they are in a good position, rather than doing so when they are struggling for results.
Nevertheless, it looks set to be a good battle for Bamford, and the lure of Premier League football could be tempting at Norwich. It all depends on assurances of game-time however. A return to the Championship could just suit him. He had a largely unsuccessful loan spell at Crystal Palace earlier this season, which may have knocked his confidence and going back to the league below, where he is proven, may seem the best move for him right now.
