Zambia international Lameck Banda has been cleared by FIFA to play for Libyan club Al-Swehly after the regulatory body rejected a request from the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) to block his transfer amid a contractual dispute with US Lecce.
Banda’s International Transfer Certificate (ITC) has been delivered to Libya, meaning the Chipolopolo winger is now eligible to represent Al-Swehly as the club prepares for its upcoming domestic and CAF Champions League commitments.
According to reports, Banda signed for Al-Swehly before Lecce announced that it had exercised an extension option on his contract. Al-Swehly maintains that Banda’s agreement with Lecce expired on 30 June 2026, making him a free agent when he joined the Libyan side.
Al-Swehly Disputes Lecce’s Claim
Al-Swehly has strongly rejected Lecce’s position, arguing that there was no binding agreement between the player and the Italian club for the 2026/27 season.
The Libyan club reportedly signed Banda on 25 July 2026, maintaining that he was not contractually bound to another club at the time.
Al-Swehly has also argued that there was no new agreement, renewal or addendum signed by Banda extending his stay at Lecce beyond the expiry of his previous contract.
FIFA Clears Banda to Play
Despite the ongoing dispute, FIFA has rejected the FIGC’s request to prevent Banda’s transfer to Libya.
With his ITC now delivered to Al-Swehly, Banda is officially free to play for his new club.
The clearance represents an important development for the Zambia international, who can now focus on returning to competitive action while the contractual dispute continues to be addressed.
Lecce Still Seeking Compensation
Although Banda has received clearance to play for Al-Swehly, the dispute has not been completely resolved.
Lecce is understood to be pursuing the matter further and is demanding compensation over the transfer.
The club’s next steps could determine whether the contractual disagreement results in further proceedings or financial claims involving the parties.
Conclusion
FIFA’s decision has cleared the way for Lameck Banda to represent Al-Swehly, despite the unresolved contractual dispute with Lecce.
The Zambian winger can now turn his attention to his new challenge in Libya, with Al-Swehly preparing for CAF Champions League football. Meanwhile, Lecce’s pursuit of compensation means the transfer dispute could continue away from the pitch.
