Sheffield United Edging Closer to Key Contract Extension as Reshape Set to Get Underway | OneFootball

Sheffield United are advancing in talks with Patrick Bamford over extending his current contract, with the Blades close to agreeing a deal that would keep the striker at Bramall Lane until the end of the season, per Football Insider.

Chris Wilder is keen to retain Bamford beyond the expiry of his short-term agreement, which is currently set to run out after United’s FA Cup clash with Mansfield on the 11th of January.

Since being integrated into the matchday squad, Bamford has quickly become one of United’s standout performers, offering experience, intelligence and a calm presence at the top end of the pitch. The 32-year-old has also struck up an encouraging partnership with both Tyrese Campbell and Tom Cannon.

Patrick Bamford Has Given Sheffield United A New Dimension

Bamford’s ability to lead the line and bring others into play has complemented Campbell’s athleticism and direct running, giving United a more balanced and effective attacking threat. With Bamford having been part of multiple promotion pushes earlier in his career, his know-how could prove invaluable as the Blades look to climb the table in 2026.

While Bamford has scored five times in ten appearances, it is his work away from the penalty area that has most impressed the coaching staff. He applies smart, well-timed pressure on defenders, uses his body expertly to win fouls and hold the ball up, and creates space for those around him. This has helped ensure Campbell and Cannon are no longer isolated, allowing United to sustain attacks higher up the pitch.

Despite averaging just 49 minutes per game so far, Bamford is still posting strong underlying numbers, with an average of two shots per match and close to one key pass per game.

If he can continue to build on this momentum, he looks set to be a vital component of United’s push through the second half of the campaign. Securing his future, even in the short term, is therefore a clear priority for Wilder, with his current deal expiring in the next couple of weeks.

Blades Looking to Reshape Squad in January

STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 29: Thomas Cannon of Sheffield United celebrates with Tyrese Campbell and Japhet Tanganga after he scores their second goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between Stoke City and Sheffield United at Bet365 Stadium on December 29, 2025 in Stoke on Trent, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

Elsewhere, Sheffield United have continued to streamline their squad. The loan spells of Ben Godfrey and Louie Barry have been terminated, with both players returning to their parent clubs. In addition, Alex Matos, Ehije Ukaki, Christian Nwachukwu and Mihail Polenkadov have all been made available for transfer and are free to leave should suitable offers arrive, according to The Star.

With the Blades actively looking to trim down their squad this month, this could pave way for yet more smart signings as Sheffield United look to overcome the odds and push for a top six finish after a disastrous start to the 2025/26 season.