Peterborough United are prepared to allow talisman Jonson Clarke-Harris to move on in the January window, with AFC Wimbledon’s Ali Al-Hamadi being targeted by the club, according to journalist Darren Witcoop.
Clarke-Harris has been a pivotal figure for the Posh, joining in the summer of 2020 to replace England international Ivan Toney. The striker has scored over 80 goals for the Cambridgeshire club, winning the club automatic promotion to the Championship while also registering double figures in the second tier.
Having joined from Bristol Rovers three years ago, a return to his former club fell through on deadline day in September after Darragh MacAnthony’s club transfer listed the 29-year-old as he entered the final year of his contract, which is still set to expire in 2024.
Clarke-Harris has scored four goals in 12 starts in League One this season, having not made a league start since October.
However, the third tier side are not settling without a replacement for the ex-Coventry City man, with AFC Wimbledon‘s Ali Al-Hamadi firmly in the club’s sights.
Peterborough still prepared to allow Jonson Clarke-Harris leave next month as they target a new striker. AFC Wimbledon’s Ali Al-Hamadi on the club’s radar. Clarke-Harris saw a return to Bristol Rovers fall through on deadline day in September. #pufc #posh #AFCWimbledon
— Darren Witcoop (@DarrenOWitcoop) December 21, 2023
Making the move to South London last January, Al-Hamadi was a fringe player at Wycombe Wanderers. Since his transfer to Johnnie Jackson’s side, the Iraq international’s performances have caught the eye of many higher division clubs.
The 21-year-old is currently enjoying a stellar season, having registered 10 goals and five assists as the club challenge for a place in the League Two play-offs. If Peterborough are to make the move, there will no doubt be competition for the young striker’s signature, having reportedly having been the subject of interest to Barnsley, Plymouth Argyle and a host of higher division clubs.
On the other hand, it remains to be seen whether Bristol Rovers will reignite their interest in their former talisman.
Writer’s View
While Clarke-Harris has not set his usual standards this season, it is understandable due to the emergence of young attacking talent at Peterborough this season. Only 29 with a lot to offer, a move to Bristol Rovers would suit all parties – it will be interesting to see if this move picks back up following its collapse in September.
Additionally, fans will not be surprised to see Peterborough targeting a young striking prospect from lower divisions – that being said, Al-Hamadi’s future is extremely bright, he would not just be a good signing for the present but also a fantastic investment for the future. If the Cambridgeshire side can secure his signature, it will be a fantastic coup for Darragh MacAnthony.
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