Deal 80% Done: Leeds Set to Axe Bamford in Big-Money Muniz Move

Patrick Bamford ‘Holds the Key’ as Leeds Step Up Rodrigo Muniz Pursuit Amid Transfer Shake-Up

Leeds United are reportedly set to renew their push for Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz, with Patrick Bamford’s imminent exit viewed as a crucial step in unlocking the transfer.

Muniz, 24, has steadily built a reputation in the Premier League over the last two seasons, netting 21 goals for Fulham despite limited starts. Last campaign, he made only eight league starts, with attacking competition at Craven Cottage limiting his opportunities.

Leeds, newly promoted and keen to reinforce their front line, are long-time admirers of the Brazilian forward and reportedly had a bid turned down earlier in the summer. The Whites are now expected to revisit the deal, with the Mail Online (23 July) reporting that Fulham could demand in excess of £40million.

So far, Leeds have not offered more than £26million, but remain keen and are monitoring developments closely.

A significant factor in funding the Muniz move lies in player departures. The club are looking to offload both Patrick Bamford and Mateo Joseph to free up funds and squad space. Bamford, once a key figure at Elland Road, is now surplus to requirements, having been informed by manager Daniel Farke that he is not in the club’s future plans.

Joseph, meanwhile, has handed in a transfer request, expressing a desire to return to Spain. His sale is expected to generate upwards of £10million.

Bamford’s exit would also bring significant wage savings, reportedly over £700,000 annually, providing Leeds with a stronger financial foundation for a marquee signing like Muniz. The Brazilian is said to be eager for regular football as he eyes a place in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad — something Leeds could offer in abundance.

Meanwhile, Leeds continue to be linked with Feyenoord winger Igor Paixao. Although Marseille remain front-runners for his signature, progress has stalled, potentially opening the door for the Yorkshire club. Paixao’s representatives have insisted that he is currently only negotiating with the French side, but also revealed the player would be “open to a move to Leeds if it presents itself.”

The signing of Anton Stach from Hoffenheim earlier this week reaffirmed Leeds’ ambition in the market, but the club are still in need of a new goalkeeper, striker, and left winger.

Should Jack Harrison depart — a possibility that would generate strong PSR profit due to his long-term contract — the chances of signing Paixao would increase, especially given the Brazilian’s Champions League experience and admiration for former Leeds winger Raphinha.

With less than a month until the new Premier League season kicks off, Leeds are expected to move swiftly to finalise their squad. Whether it’s sealing a deal for Muniz, reigniting talks for Paixao, or accelerating outgoing transfers, the coming weeks promise to be decisive.

Muniz remains the priority — and Bamford’s departure may be the key that finally unlocks the move.