Middlesbrough do not need to sell players this summer – but Leeds United reportedly want Bamford while Wolves are keen on Adama Traore.
Middlesbrough were so close to sealing a return to the Premier League last season but, as it transpired, not close enough. Tony Pulis’ side came unstuck against Aston Villa in the play-off semi-finals thanks to a single goal over two legs from Mile Jedinak.
So obviously the challenge this year will be to go one step better. And, to do so, Middlesbrough really need to keep their key players at The Riverside – although Adama Traore appears to be on his way out.
The Sun states that speed-king Traore, who contributed to 15 goals last season and emerged as Boro’s key creative spark, is on his way to Wolves after they triggered his £18 million release clause.
But what impact could this have on Leeds United’s reported attempts to end their striker search with Pulis favourite Patrick Bamford? According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Leeds have turned their attention to Middlesbrough’s gifted forward after a deal for Matej Vydra proved too costly – despite the fact that the North East club value Bamford at £16 million.
According to Teeside Live, however, Boro do not want to let the former Chelsea striker leave and have no need to sell him in order to raise funds for new additions. And the impending departure of Traore will leave the club in an even better financial position.
It seems hugely unlikely that Middlesbrough will sell both of their most important attacking players this summer – so Leeds’ pursuit of Bamford could quickly run into a brick wall.
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