Ipswich Town are ready to sanction Ali Al-Hamadi’s departure this month, with multiple EFL clubs circling for his signature.
The Iraq international striker has fallen down the pecking order under Kieran McKenna and could leave before the transfer deadline.
Championship and League One Interest
Luton Town have already made an enquiry, with Al-Hamadi understood to prefer staying in the Championship if possible. The 23-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Stoke City, scoring twice in 15 appearances, and another temporary move now appears likely.
Cardiff City, currently in League One, have monitored the situation and could revive their interest depending on the outcome of Youssef Salach’s future. Charlton Athletic have also been linked, but their £3.5 million outlay on Charlie Kelman may mean their striker search is concluded. Bristol City explored a deal earlier in the summer but are no longer pursuing the player.
Ipswich’s stance is clear: McKenna plans to move forward with George Hirst, Sammie Szmodics and summer signing Chuba Akpom as his primary attacking options, leaving Al-Hamadi surplus to requirements despite having three years remaining on his contract.
From Hot Prospect to Fringe Role
The striker’s situation is a far cry from his breakthrough period at AFC Wimbledon two seasons ago, when his prolific form made him one of the most sought-after young forwards in the EFL. Ipswich paid just under £1.5 million to secure his services, but opportunities have been limited and many of his appearances have come from the bench.
Al-Hamadi started Tuesday night’s EFL Cup defeat to Bromley, playing the full 90 minutes before missing the decisive penalty in the shootout. The League Two side progressed, and teammate Conor Chaplin was quick to defend the forward afterwards, praising his character and backing him to recover quickly.
For Ipswich, the priority now is to find a destination where Al-Hamadi can play regularly while freeing up squad space and potentially easing the wage bill ahead of further recruitment. With the transfer window closing on 1 September, there is still time for more clubs to join the race for his signature.
Writer’s View
A move away from Portman Road feels like the right outcome for all parties. Al-Hamadi’s raw ability is not in question, but the competition for places in McKenna’s frontline means his game time would be severely limited. For the player, regular minutes are essential to rebuild form and confidence after a frustrating spell.
For Ipswich, the departure would create flexibility in a squad aiming to compete at the top end of the Championship. If a Championship club can match his ambitions, expect this deal to move quickly in the coming weeks.
