FIFA clears Lameck Banda to play for Al-Swehly amid Lecce dispute

FIFA has granted a provisional transfer clearance for Zambian international winger Lameck Banda, allowing him to play for the Libyan club Al-Swehly SC while a contractual dispute with his former club, US Lecce, remains unresolved.

The conflict centers on Lecce’s decision to exercise a unilateral option to extend Banda’s contract through June 30, 2027. Lecce maintains the extension is valid and binding. However, Banda’s representatives dispute the extension, arguing there was no mutual consent or new economic agreement, and that signing a document to acknowledge the receipt of a renewal notice does not constitute agreement to a fifth year.

Al-Swehly SC maintains that Banda was a free agent following the expiration of his contract on June 30, 2026. The Libyan side has confirmed that Banda is already training with the team and is eligible for official matches, including potential participation in the CAF Champions League.