Cardiff City had identified Al-Hamadi as a potential target, mainly as a contingency in the event of losing Youssef Salach. Ipswich Town was ready to let Ali Al-Hamadi go this month, with Cardiff City being one of the English Football League clubs interested in signing him. The Welsh club still had the opportunity to make a move before the transfer window closed, as they aimed to enhance their attacking lineup. Al-Hamadi, aged 23, who had a previous loan spell at Stoke City, expressed his desire to stay in the Championship, although a transfer to Cardiff City in League One was still on the table. Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna had given his consent to Al-Hamadi's departure, as the forward was not part of his long-term plans for Ipswich. Cardiff City's pursuit of Al-Hamadi was aligned with their strategic goal to increase their squad depth, particularly in anticipation of a possible exit by Youssef Salach.