Patrick Bamford to Crystal Palace: Latest Loan Details, Comments, Reaction

Patrick Bamford reached an agreement with Chelsea on a three-year contract extension on Tuesday. The 21-year-old forward will need to wait a little longer before making an impact at Stamford Bridge, however, as the club also announced he'll spend next season on loan with Crystal Palace.

Bamford originally joined the Blues in 2012, but he has spent the past two-and-a-half terms out on loan as part of his development.

He told the club's official site that he's prepared for the next stage of the process as he works closer to becoming part of Chelsea's first team:

"

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.

"

The England youth international showcased outstanding form for Middlesbrough last season. He scored 19 goals in 43 appearances across all competitions and earned the honor of being named Football League Championship Player of the Year.

Now he moves up to the Premier League with Palace. He should receive consistent playing time up front alongside an underrated attacking group that includes Yohan Cabaye, James McArthur, Jason Puncheon and Wilfried Zaha.

It's a situation that gives him a much better chance to continue his growth as a player when compared with staying at Chelsea. The Blues feature a crowded forward corps with Radamel Falcao, Diego Costa and Loic Remy, which would have made it difficult for Bamford to see the field regularly.

The contract extension shows Chelsea remain optimistic about Bamford's long-term potential. They have handled his situation well by sending him into good environments for young players, and he's responded by steadily improving his all-around game.

A strong season with Palace against Premier League competition would go a long way in helping him secure a spot with the Blues for the 2016-17 campaign and beyond.