Blackburn Rovers are 'admirers' of Leeds United forward Patrick Bamford and could ignite a move in the January transfer window, it has been claimed. John Eustace's side are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the remainder of the season and a new striker is wanted.

Rovers, who beat Leeds 1-0 in November before holding them to a 1-1 draw at Elland Road on New Year's Day, sit seventh in the Championship table and have a genuine chance of finishing in the play-off places.

However, Blackburn's lack of firepower is a real concern. They have scored just 28 goals in 25 league matches this season, representing the worst return out of anyone in the top-half.

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With this in mind, it's no surprise Eustace is keen to strengthen his front line. Bamford is someone that Blackburn are interested in, according to journalist Alan Nixon, and want to sign this month.

Leeds are keen to hold on to Bamford for the meantime. This is because with Joe Gelhardt set to join Hull City next week, Daniel Farke is not likely to be prepared to lose a second striker without bringing someone in.

It's not Farke's usual approach to panic sign in the transfer window, meaning a possible departure for Bamford is highly unlikely until at least the summer. Joel Piroe and Mateo Joseph are Leeds' alternative centre forward options at the club right now, though Largie Ramazani and Wilfried Gnonto can do a job up front.

Bamford has, however, failed to score in 11 appearances this season. He has started just once - in the Carabao Cup defeat against Middlesbrough in August - and has played a total of 213 minutes.

He hasn't featured since the draw with Blackburn on January 1 due to a hamstring issue. Farke provided an update on Bamford's condition on Thursday and revealed he might not be available until the start of February. He said: "Sadly it is a bit more of a serious injury. Hamstring injury in the Blackburn game, he will be out in total for four weeks. Could last a few more days, perhaps a bit quicker, depending on the rehab."