Ipswich Town welcomes Ali Al-Hamadi in a long-term deal

Ipswich Town have announced the signing of 21-year-old striker Ali Al-Hamadi from AFC Wimbledon.

Al-Hamadi, who has made a significant impact at Wimbledon with 27 goals in 48 games, joins the club on a long-term contract that extends until the summer of 2028.

Following Iraq's participation in the Asian Cup, Al-Hamadi is set to wear the number 16 shirt for Ipswich Town and will soon join his new teammates.

In a statement to TownTV, Al-Hamadi expressed his enthusiasm about the move.

"Ipswich is a club on an upward trajectory, with a manager known for developing players. At this point in my career, I feel ready to make the step up, and this feels like the perfect fit for me," he said.

"I’ve watched Ipswich play attractive football with high intensity and energy, which fits my characteristics well. I am hungry to score goals and, despite understanding the step up to the Championship, I’m confident in my ability and look forward to joining up with the squad."

Town Manager Kieran McKenna remarked on Al-Hamadi's potential, "Ali is a very exciting young striker who we feel has great attributes and a lot of room to continue to develop. He’s had a really good first 12 months of regular senior football at AFC Wimbledon, fitting our recruitment profile of being young, hungry, athletic, and technical."

Born in Iraq, Al-Hamadi moved to England at the age of one, starting his football journey in Liverpool and progressing through Tranmere Rovers' youth system.

His career includes a move to Swansea in 2018, a professional contract with the South Wales club, and a transfer to Wycombe Wanderers in 2021.

He spent a loan spell at Bromley in 2022 before his transfer to Wimbledon, where he ended the 2022/23 season with 10 goals in 19 games, and continued his impressive form in the current season.

With 12 caps and three goals for Iraq since his international debut in November 2021, Al-Hamadi's arrival at Ipswich Town marks a promising addition to the team.