Sheffield United have announced the signing of former Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford on a short-term contract until January 2026. This move comes as a surprise to many, considering the recent history between Bamford and Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder.

Back in April 2025, during Leeds United's promotion celebrations, Bamford was filmed leading fans in an offensive chant against Wilder. The video, which went viral, showed Bamford initiating the chant, which included derogatory lyrics about the Sheffield United boss.

Wilder addressed the incident at the time, stating that he had spoken with Bamford and held "no issue at all" with the player. He revealed that Bamford had personally called him to apologize. "I'm not sure about the words used from a fellow pro, but I appreciate and respected him giving me a call and we had 20 minutes," Wilder said. He also mentioned having a conversation with Leeds manager Daniel Farke.

Despite the past controversy, Wilder is now looking to Bamford to bolster Sheffield United's attacking options. The Blades are currently struggling in the Championship, sitting in the relegation zone after losing 11 of their 15 league matches this season. Wilder has been keen to add a new striker to his squad, stating that he wants "a number nine in the building [that] will give us the different options".

Bamford, 32, has been a free agent since leaving Leeds United by mutual consent in August. He had been in talks with Spanish club Getafe, but the move did not materialize. To maintain his fitness, Bamford has been training with Coventry City in recent weeks.

Throughout his career, Bamford has a proven track record in the Championship, scoring 69 goals. Wilder hopes that Bamford can replicate that form for Sheffield United and help them climb up the league table. "If Wilder is looking for goals then getting the best out of Bamford will give him exactly that," a report stated.

The signing of Bamford could provide fresh competition for places among Sheffield United's current attacking players, including Tom Cannon, Danny Ings, Chiedozie Ogbene, and Tyrese Campbell. Bamford could make his debut in the derby against Sheffield Wednesday if he proves his fitness in time.

This move represents a surprising turn of events, given the history between Bamford and Wilder. However, Wilder seems willing to put the past behind them in an effort to improve Sheffield United's fortunes on the pitch. The short-term deal suggests that both parties are taking a cautious approach, with Bamford having the opportunity to prove himself and Wilder assessing whether he can be a valuable asset to the team.