Lameck Banda missing as Lecce faces uncertainty over his future

US Lecce’s 25‑year‑old Zambian winger Lameck Banda has been unreachable for more than two weeks. The player was last seen at Lusaka airport in Zambia on 23 July, after returning from the off‑season. Lecce’s pre‑season camp in Austria proceeded without him, and the club has received no contact from the player, his agents or his family.

Speculation centres on Banda trying to force a move to Saudi Arabian club Al‑Fateh. Lecce exercised a unilateral contract extension to 2027, which effectively blocked the transfer. The club’s sporting director Stefano Trinchera and president Saverio Sticchi Damiani have expressed concern, warned of possible disciplinary action, and said they hope nothing serious has happened. Banda contributed five goals and four assists in the previous Serie A season, helping Lecce avoid relegation.

The situation remains unresolved, with the club awaiting any information on Banda’s whereabouts and intentions.