Time is running out for Leeds to make the signings that they need.

With only two weeks of the transfer window left, the club needs to decide who to gamble on and fast. They should roll the dice and sign Patrick Bamford.

It is clear that Bamford is not the first, or even second, choice.

However, the wage demands of Matej Vydra and Abel Hernandez saw Leeds priced out of securing either.

The Middlesbrough forward impressed in the second half of last season, scoring 10 times in his last 15 appearances.

However, this only served to cover his issues with consistency as he had scored just once in his first 26 games of the season.

Add in his failure to make an impact in either play-off semi-final legs and the gap between him and Leeds’ previous targets becomes clear.

Nonetheless, Bamford has an impressive history at this level: his previous Championship season saw him score 17 in the 2014/15 season.

He also has the versatility to play in any position across the front-line, while, at 24 years old, Leeds would be securing a player who is approaching their prime.

These facts demonstrate why Marcelo Bielsa is justified to consider signing him.

The concern will be that big money will have to be spent.

Earlier this month Nottingham Forest saw an £8 million bid rejected, with Middlesbrough reportedly wanting twice that.

Usually this would be enough to deter further interest.

However, Leeds have to sign a forward and Bamford may be their last hope.