Former Leeds United forward Patrick Bamford has already told the club what to expect from Kobbie Mainoo amid suggestions that the Manchester United midfielder could move to Elland Road.
Kobbie Mainoo was named as a surprise target for Leeds United during the summer transfer window, after he had fallen down the pecking order at Manchester United.
Having played just 138 minutes in the Premier League for the Red Devils so far this season, Mainoo has been linked with a move to Elland Road once again, as the January transfer window rapidly approaches.
Patrick Bamford earned a call-up to the England squad during his time at Leeds, before he became one of the players to depart Elland Road in the summer transfer window.
Speaking in 2024, on the verge of the European Championships that summer, Bamford explained why he was impressed by Mainoo, in a verdict that bodes well for his former club should they decide to make a move for the midfielder.
Patrick Bamford during Leeds United v Middlesbrough - Carabao Cup First Round.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
Patrick Bamford is a fan of Leeds United target Kobbie Mainoo
Appearing on the My Mate’s a Footballer podcast alongside comedian Joe Wilkinson, Bamford explained why he is a fan of Mainoo.
Mainoo was an important part of the Manchester United side at the time of recording the podcast, and went on to feature in England’s midfield at Euro 2024.
According to Bamford, Mainoo’s character means he is not fazed by the big stage, something that should set him up to fly in his career.
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Bamford said: “Gareth [Southgate] and Steve Holland will know a lot about a player’s character just from training.
“Young players, I’ve watched Mainoo quite a bit. Nothing phases him. When a young player is like that, they just fly.”
Kobbie Mainoo on England duty in 2024.
Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Questions over where Kobbie Mainoo would fit in at Leeds United
Although Mainoo remains a player with a huge amount of potential, there is one nagging concern over the reports linking him with a move to Elland Road.
If there is one area of the pitch that Leeds do not need to strengthen, it is in central midfield, with club captain Ethan Ampadu guaranteed to start every week when fit.
Farke brought in Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach to add more physical presence, and Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev’s impact has been limited as a result.
Of course, managers are always on the lookout to strengthen, but Mainoo’s strongest position is as a number eight, putting him in direct competition with Longstaff, Stach and Tanaka.
With the England international likely to demand significant wages, it appears unlikely that he would be a natural fit for the Leeds squad.