Done Deal: Ipswich Town completes the signing of a striker

Ipswich Town has a new signing in the building ahead of Saturday’s visit to PNE.

Preston North End were linked with a deal for AFC Wimbledon attacker Ali Al-Hamadi, but he might potentially make his debut against the Lilywhites.

Indeed, Ipswich Town completed a late January transfer for the Iraqi international. According to reports, the Tractor Boys spent £1 million upfront to sign Al-Hamadi, as they aim for consecutive promotions.

He has signed a deal at Portman Road until 2028 and will ‘join up with his new teammates in the coming days’, following Iraq’s elimination from the Asian Cup. Town’s new number 16 scored 27 goals in 48 games for Wimbledon after joining from Wycombe a year ago.

In May 2023, PNE was said to be ‘plotting’ a move for Al-Hamadi, alongside league rivals Bristol City. That came after the attacker scored 10 goals in 19 games to help Wimbledon stay in League Two despite the threat of relegation. He will now attempt to propel Ipswich to the Premier League.

Town manager Kieran McKenna said of his new signing: “Ali is a really exciting young striker who we believe has excellent attributes and plenty of space to grow. He’s had a great first year of regular senior football and has made a major impact at AFC Wimbledon.

“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.”