Pundit reacts as Leeds United scout AFC Wimbledon striker Ali Al-Hamadi ahead of potential January transfer
Carlton Palmer has delivered his verdict as Leeds United are scouting AFC Wimbledon striker Ali Al-Hamadi.
According to the London News Online, the League Two side would want over £1.2million to part ways with the 21-year-old.
The Iraq international has racked up four goals and five assists this season and has scored a hat-trick too.
“A lot of clubs in the Championship are running the rule over AFC Wimbledon striker Ali Al-Hamadi ahead of the January transfer window,” Palmer said when speaking to Football League World.
“Some players you take from the lower leagues can make the step up and some can’t.
“Ali is playing in League Two and Leeds are one of the clubs keeping a close eye on him – I don’t think Leeds will be looking for Ali to come in and fire the goals to get them promoted, but they’ll be looking at his age and development and if they can turn him into a real asset and one for the future.
“It’s always a gamble, but there have been a lot of players who have done this in the past and gone on to do exceptionally well at a higher level.”
Not really worth the risk
Leeds look pretty well stacked in the striker department and do not need to bring in another one in January.
Georginio Rutter has led the line exceptionally for the club this season and in his absence, they have Joel Piroe who can play there.
The Dutchman has usually played there but since his move to Elland Road, he has thrived in a number 10 role.
If Leeds are to sign players in January, their focus is likely to be on a left-back amid Junior Firpo’s injury woes and lack of form since joining the club from Barcelona.
Sam Byram has been decent but there certainly are better options out there and Farke will be aware of that.
Thus, it seems highly improbable that the priority in January will be to sign a striker plying his trade in League Two as they need to bring in names that’ll strengthen their playing eleven.
In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay claims that big European clubs have been keeping tabs on a Whites player for a while and are still willing to sign him.