Ali Al-Hamadi: Ipswich Town sign AFC Wimbledon striker for undisclosed fee
- Published
Ali Al-Hamadi came through the youth set-ups at Tranmere and Swansea before making his EFL debut for Wycombe
Ipswich Town have signed striker Ali Al-Hamadi from AFC Wimbledon for an undisclosed fee.
The 21-year-old has agreed a deal with the Tractor Boys until the summer of 2028 after scoring 17 goals in 29 appearances for the Dons this season.
Al-Hamadi has won 12 international caps for Iraq and has been with them at the Asian Cup since the start of the year.
"Ipswich is a club on an upward trajectory, with a manager who is known for developing players," he said.
"At this point in my career I feel like I am ready to make the step up and this feels like the perfect fit for me.
"I am hungry to score goals and understand it's a step up to the Championship where players are better and sharper, but I'm confident in my ability, I am hungry to learn and am looking forward to joining up with the squad."
AFC Wimbledon say the deal includes "future incentives which could see the transfer become a record amount at League Two level".
Al-Hamadi will provide boss Kieran McKenna with an extra attacking option, following George Hirst's injury and the loan departure of Freddie Ladapo.
The signing comes just two days after Town were knocked out of the FA Cup by sixth-tier Maidstone United.
But they are second in the Championship and in a great position to secure promotion back to the Premier League for the first time since 2002.
"He fits our recruitment profile of being a young, hungry, athletic and technical player who we feel can have an impact in the squad straight away, but also has room to grow and develop for the future," McKenna said.
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