Lecce forward Lameck Banda has been unreachable for 13 days, raising concerns about his future with the club, according to reports in Italy. The Zambian international, who was instrumental in Lecce’s Serie A survival last season with five goals and four assists, has not responded to contact from the club for over two weeks.
The situation began when Banda appeared to be considering a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Fateh. While the club was willing to negotiate his departure, the offer from Al-Fateh was reportedly low, and Banda’s absence has become increasingly problematic for Lecce. The club had activated a unilateral extension option in Banda’s contract, which had initially expired in June, extending his deal to June 2027 after previous attempts to reach a mutually agreeable renewal failed.
Banda initially claimed to be dealing with passport issues, but subsequently posted a video on Instagram showing him playing football with friends on a makeshift pitch, a move that raised questions about the veracity of his explanation. The post was quickly deleted. Lecce travelled to Austria for pre-season training on July 15th, and Banda has not joined the squad.
Club president Saverio Sticchi Damiani and sporting director Trinchera have publicly commented on the situation, stating the club is prepared to take disciplinary action. A brief glimmer of hope emerged on July 23rd when Banda was photographed at Lusaka airport, seemingly en route to Italy, but he did not travel. His current whereabouts are unknown, and his intentions remain unclear. Sticchi Damiani stated that “whatever his objective, he has chosen the worst way to go about it.”
Adding to the mystery, Banda’s wife, Abi Chato, who married him on June 13th, has been posting photos on Instagram from luxurious hotel lobbies and with luggage, further obscuring the situation. The club maintains good relations with Banda’s agents, who are reportedly as surprised by his actions as they are. The situation leaves Lecce uncertain about their attacking options as they prepare for the new Serie A season, and the club is considering all available legal avenues.
