AFC Wimbledon forward Ali Al-Hamadi has been watched by a number of Championship clubs, according to journalist Darren Witcoop.
The Iraqi striker has reportedly garnered interest from Hull City, Cardiff City, Bristol City, and Stoke City in recent weeks ahead of the January transfer window.
The Dons attacker has hit four goals and five assists so far this season in 14 games. The club currently sit 11th in the League Two table, just four points outside the play-off places.
Al-Hamadi moved to Liverpool after having to flee Iraq due to his father being imprisoned by politician Saddam Hussain. He was selected to play for Liverpool Schoolboys in 2015, impressing enough to be offered the chance to join Tranmere Rovers. He spent three years at the club before being offered a professional contract but decided to move to South Wales.
The 21-year-old decided to take a two-year scholarship with Swansea City Academy, netting seven goals in 28 appearances for the under-18 and under-21 sides.
In November 2021, Al-Hamadi went on to sign an 18-month contract with League One club Wycombe Wanderers after a successful trial. He was then loaned out to National League side Bromley, where he scored three goals in ten appearances to help the club finish 10th.
Al-Hamadi returned to Wycombe, where he made a total of 13 appearances, scoring one goal before securing a move to Plough Lane in January 2023. He scored his first goal for the club in February in a 2-2 draw with Hartlepool United. He then went on to win the EFL Young Player of the Month award for March.
He has since gone on to make 33 appearances for the Wombles, netting 14 goals. His performances have done enough to gain interest from the Championship, which would be the highest level he has played at club level.
Al-Hamadi has represented Iraq at international level, making nine appearances and scoring two goals for the senior side. He made his debut in a 1-1 draw against Syria in November 2021.
Writer’s view
Ali Al-Hamadi probably doesn’t immediately look like a player that Championship clubs would be interested in based on his stats alone, but they clearly see potential in the young forward in other aspects of what he does on the field. He has the potential to be an attacking threat, chipping in with goals and assists, but is also a physical presence for his side.
It would be the highest level he has played at in his club career, and is a jump that is difficult to make. He has achieved so much in his career, considering where he began as a youngster, and he will hopefully flourish and continue to develop if given the opportunity.
