Ipswich Town have bided their time in identifying a replacement for Liam Delap this summer.
Chelsea signed the striker for £30m early in the transfer window following the Tractor Boys’ relegation to the Championship, with the young forward excelling in the Premier League last season.
However, the Suffolk outfit have been keen to fill out the rest of their squad, with George Hirst expected to take the reins up front after he played the supporting role to Delap in the top flight.
However, Ipswich have had a bid for Chuba Akpom accepted, and with it now a straight competition between themselves and Birmingham City for the 29-year-old, another player at Portman Road must move on.
Ali Al-Hamadi must leave Ipswich Town if Chuba Akpom signs
While Akpom would be a tremendous signing for the Tractor Boys, it may have a negative impact on Ali Al-Hamadi’s game time.
Ali Al-Hamadi during Stoke City FC v Sheffield Wednesday FC - Sky Bet Championship
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
The former AFC Wimbledon man does not want to drop below the Championship, but a lack of minutes on the pitch will put him in a tough position as the weeks go by in the summer transfer window.
He spent the second half of last season on loan at Stoke City, but he struggled for consistency in front of goal and the argument could be made that he needs a new permanent home where he can settle and become the first-choice striker.
Ipswich have promotion aspirations once again, and Akpom will join permanently if he does opt for McKenna’s side and they return to the Premier League – casting further doubt on Al-Hamadi’s future.
Championship and League One clubs should be on notice
Although he did have a few struggles in the Championship last time out, it is clear to see that the 14-time capped Iraq international does have plenty of talent.
He could be the difference for sides towards the bottom of the table, while clubs at the very top of League One will also be keeping an eye on his situation.
Ali Al-Hamadi of Stoke City celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between Stoke City FC and Blackburn Rovers FC
Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images
McKenna does not have too much depth in the forward position at Portman Road, but with Sammie Szmodics able to play in an attacking midfield and striker role when needed, Al-Hamadi could be free to seek a new adventure.