Leeds United and Sunderland transfer target Ali Al-Hamadi could be sold for as little as £1.5 million, according to a report in the Sunderland Echo.
AFC Wimbledon striker Ali Al-Hamadi is set to be at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war with a host of teams reportedly chasing the 10-goal marksman, encouraged by a believed price tag of only £1.5 million. The Iraq international, who represented his country in last month’s World Cup qualifying stage victories over Indonesia and Vietnam, has been in fine form since joining The Dons in January.
The 21-year-old began his footballing career at Tranmere Rovers before joining Swansea City and eventually Wycombe Wanderers. It was from Wycombe where he made his way to Plough Lane. Al-Hamadi hit the ground running, notching 10 goals in his 19 games from January. He has continued his impressive form this season, with 10 goals and five assists from his 18 appearances.
Al-Hamadi has, since joining Wimbledon, been involved in 30 goals in just 42 appearances. Reports are suggesting that this excellent form has led to a whole host of clubs becoming interested in his signature. Leeds and Sunderland are believed to be on a list of sides that includes Hull City, Cardiff City and Bristol City from the Championship as well as League One clubs Peterborough United and Barnsley, with many of these clubs believed to have sent scouts to cast an eye over the talented hitman.
AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson is a big admirer of his player and has backed him to go all the way. Jackson said, “He can go all the way. He’s a top player and at this level. He’s a shining light (and) he’s adding goals now. At the start of the season, he wasn’t scoring. We knew that (the goals) would come because of the way that he plays and the way he goes about it. Top lad, and I love working with him.”
Writer’s View
No team wants to lose one of their star men, that’s obvious, but AFC Wimbledon will almost be resigned to that happening and will no doubt be determined to strike the best deal for the club. The striker’s form has made it almost impossible for him to stay in League Two.
For Al-Hamadi, the decision on his next move is a massive one. Does he choose a massive football club like Leeds United but potentially get lost in their squad, particularly if promotion to the Premier League is secured? Or, does he decide to join a side like Peterborough United who, despite only being one level up, have a record of helping players to develop and selling them on to teams higher up the football pyramid?
It is a great position to be in for the young player but also a huge decision to make.
A primary school teacher turned writer, Tom has been part of The Real EFL for two years. He focuses on predictions, deep dives, and insightful content.
