New Patrick Bamford Elland Road stay twist 49ers told Player one MAJOR game changing decision that will make him stay for additional two years.
Gnonto’s new contract extension came as a complete surprise. The Italian star has signed a deal keeping him at Leeds until the summer of 2028, much to the delight of fans who are thrilled he has committed his future to the club.
However, Gnonto isn’t the only player Leeds will be looking to secure on a new deal. Junior Firpo, who has provided the most assists in the Championship since the start of 2024, is out of contract next summer. Leeds need to secure an extension for Firpo before January, or they risk him signing a pre-contract with a foreign club. Meanwhile, Illan Meslier is reportedly seeking a release clause if he is to agree to a new deal.
### The 49ers Prioritize Bamford’s Contract—But with a Pay Cut
Patrick Bamford, now 31, has faced a tough few seasons. The former England international has been unable to replicate his stellar 2020-21 campaign under Marcelo Bielsa, where he contributed to 25 Premier League goals. Injuries have plagued him, and he has recently returned from another hamstring issue. According to Ben Jacobs, Leeds and their 49ers ownership group have made renewing Bamford’s contract a priority.
Bamford still has two years left on his current deal, which makes him one of the highest-paid players at the club, even after the relegation wage reductions. He is reportedly still earning more than £30,000 a week.
### Leeds Must Adjust Bamford’s Wages to Reflect His Current Role
Phil Hay of *The Athletic* reported that most players’ wages were halved after relegation, and Bamford, who was earning £70,000 per week in the Premier League, had one of the largest salaries at the club. However, Bamford is currently struggling to justify even half of that wage, and with his age and injury record, Leeds need to negotiate a pay cut if they want him to stay beyond 2026.
While some fans may question the need for a new deal for Bamford, they would likely accept it if his wages are significantly reduced. This is the approach the 49ers will need to take, realigning his salary with the rest of the squad and his current role. With Mateo Joseph emerging as the preferred option and Joel Piroe possibly ahead of Bamford in the pecking order after scoring against Hull City, Bamford is now more of a backup option.