Contractual Controversy: Banda's Unsanctioned Move
Banda's Absence and Lecce's Initial Response
Lameck Banda, a talented player currently under contract with Lecce until June 2027, has been conspicuously absent from his team's pre-season preparations for several weeks. Following his summer vacation, Banda failed to report for training, prompting Lecce to issue a formal statement indicating that disciplinary action would be taken. However, these warnings appear to have gone unheeded, as Banda has reportedly ceased all communication with the Italian club.
Alleged Transfer to Al Swehli SC and FIFA Intervention
The situation escalated significantly with recent reports suggesting that Banda has been seen at a training camp with Libyan club Al Swehli SC in Cairo. Al Swehli SC, preparing for the CAF Champions League, is rumored to have offered Banda a lucrative two-year contract worth €1.6 million per season. In response, Lecce has formally appealed to FIFA, as well as the Zambian and Libyan football federations, to assert their contractual rights over the player. This move comes after Lecce reportedly rejected an earlier offer from Al Swehli for Banda, which was valued at less than €1 million.
Banda's Defense: A Misunderstanding of Contract Terms
Adding another layer to this intricate dispute, Banda is reportedly claiming that he was unaware of a unilateral option in his Lecce contract that allowed the club to extend his terms in June 2026, an option which Lecce subsequently activated. This contention forms the basis of his argument as he seeks to justify his departure and potential move to the Libyan club.
