There is less than a fortnight left to run in the January transfer window and Leeds United are yet to make a move, though Daniel Farke has hinted at a possible striker signing.
Joe Gelhardt scored for Hull City in his first full start on Tuesday night after leaving Leeds on loan last week. Patrick Bamford remains injured until the end of January and it saw Farke hint at signing a striker.
But Leeds are yet to make any serious moves. Plenty of strikers have been linked, including Israel striker Dor Turgeman as well as Aston Villa talent Louie Barry after his stunning loan spell at Stockport County.
However, Kieran McKenna might have just handed Leeds the ideal opportunity to bring in a player Leeds wanted to sign in 2024. One that could solve a lack of options up top, ahead of the promotion run-in.
Kieran McKenna makes Ipswich Town man available for sale
In January 2024, Leeds were interested in signing Ali Al-Hamadi from AFC Wimbledon. He had a hand in 23 goal involvements in 29 games during the first half of 2023-24, earning himself a move to Ipswich.
But Leeds were among the clubs interested in the Iraq international. This season, the forward has been afforded just two starts and he EADT report McKenna is open to selling Al-Hamadi but only for a profit.
Indeed, Ipswich bought Al-Hamadi for a deal that has gone up to £2m. West Brom held talks but pulled out of a loan deal while Stoke City want to sign Al-Hamadi on a temporary basis before the deadline.
Ali Al-Hamadi timing is perfect after Mergim Berisha blow
While Mateo Joseph and Joel Piroe remain, Bamford cannot be relied upon. Piroe often goes missing despite his 15 goals and assists this term and Joseph has only managed two goals throughout 2024-25.
The Whites need another option and Al-Hamadi presents that opportunity. Described as a “shining light” by Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson as per the SLP, his availability comes at the perfect time for Leeds.
Indeed, Hoffenheim’s Mergim Berisha is set to return to Augsburg. A blow for Leeds with the Whites said to have considered luring the two-time Germany international to Elland Road on loan this month.
With Al-Hamadi available, Leeds can move swiftly and attempt to bring in the striker just hours after it was reported that Berisha would no longer be available. A smart, low-risk signing for The Whites.
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