Libyan champions Al Swehly have officially unveiled Zambia international Lameck Banda as their latest signing, with the winger putting pen to paper on a three-year contract following his departure from Italian club Lecce.
The 25-year-old has been cleared by FIFA to represent the Libyan champions despite an ongoing contractual dispute with Lecce, who maintain that Banda remains under contract with the Serie A side until June 2027. FIFA’s clearance means the Chipolopolo winger is now free to begin his competitive career with Al Swehly.
Banda Set for CAF Champions League Football
Banda’s first major assignment with his new club will come in the CAF Champions League, where Al Swehly will face Zanzibar champions KVZ FC in the first preliminary round.
The Libyan champions will be hoping Banda’s pace, creativity and attacking ability can help them progress in continental competition.
Should Al Swehly overcome KVZ FC, they will face Tunisian giants Espérance Sportive de Tunis in the second preliminary round, providing Banda with another major continental test.
Lecce Dispute Remains Unresolved
Banda’s move to Libya comes against the backdrop of a contractual disagreement with Lecce.
Lecce president Saverio Sticchi Damiani previously stated that the club had exercised an option to extend Banda’s contract and claimed that the player had signed a document agreeing to the renewal.
The Italian club subsequently referred the matter to FIFA after Banda failed to report for pre-season training, seeking clarification over his contractual status and possible disciplinary action.
Although FIFA has cleared Banda to play for Al Swehly, the underlying dispute has not been completely resolved.
Lecce Could Still Seek Compensation
The possibility of further proceedings remains open, with Lecce reportedly maintaining its position that Banda was contractually tied to the club beyond the 2025/26 season.
If the Italian club succeeds in proving that Banda breached a valid contract without just cause, the Zambia international could potentially face a compensation claim.
For now, however, FIFA’s clearance allows Banda to focus on his new club and his upcoming continental commitments.
A New Chapter in Libya
The move brings an end, at least for now, to Banda’s time in Italian football and opens a new chapter in his career.
Al Swehly will be hoping the former Lecce winger can make an immediate impact as they pursue success both domestically and in the CAF Champions League.
For Banda, the continental campaign against KVZ FC offers the perfect opportunity to begin his Al Swehly journey on a positive note.
Conclusion
Lameck Banda has officially begun his new adventure after being unveiled by Al Swehly on a three-year contract.
With FIFA clearance already secured, the Chipolopolo winger can now concentrate on football while the contractual dispute with Lecce continues separately. His immediate focus will be helping the Libyan champions navigate their CAF Champions League campaign and establish himself as one of their key attacking players.
