Crystal Palace sign Patrick Bamford from Chelsea on season-long loan

Crystal Palace have signed Patrick Bamford England under-21 international Patrick Bamford from Chelsea on a season-long loan deal.

Earlier today Patrick Bamford signed a new three-year contract with Chelsea before he was sent on loan to Crystal Palace to continue his development.

Bamford said: ‘I’m delighted to sign a new contract with Chelsea. My dream has always been to be part of this club for the long term. Chelsea have been fantastic with my development and joining Crystal Palace for this season on loan is the next step for me in my career.’

Speaking to Crystal Palace official website, Bamford said, “I was quite keen to stay close to London this time and Palace were actually my first choice, but I didn't realise they were keen to start with. Then, when I met with the manager, he put forward his plans and it was an easy decision."

The England under-21 added, “I like to get in behind the defence. I'd say I'm deceptively quick, but I'm sure they'll make their own minds up! I do like to score goals, so hopefully I'll be able to do that a lot here. I want to try to establish myself in a Premier League team and if I can do that here then it would be great for me and great for the club.”

Eagles manager Alan Pardew was delighted by the young forward’s decision to join the club for the season.

“It’s a coup for Crystal Palace ahead of a host of rivals,” he said. “I’m so pleased he chose us over others to help develop his game. Hopefully he will be a star for us, Chelsea and – of course – England.

“Patrick is one of England’s brightest prospects and I will liaise with Jose [Mourinho], Gareth [Southgate] and Dan Ashworth on his progress during this important year in his career.”

Bamford, who scored 19 times for Middlesbrough on his way to being voted Championship Player of the Year last season, signed for Chelsea in early 2012.