Italian Serie A club US Lecce have announced they will investigate Zambia international winger Lameck Banda after the player failed to return to Italy as scheduled ahead of the resumption of sporting activities.
Lecce confirmed that Banda, who had already been called up to resume training with the squad, reported a further delay caused by “logistical and bureaucratic issues” that have prevented his return to the club.
The club said it would carry out further investigations into the circumstances surrounding the delay and reserved the right to take action, including possible disciplinary measures, if it finds that contractual obligations have not been fulfilled.
“The club will carry out the necessary in-depth investigations regarding the circumstances taken by the player, reserving any initiatives, even on a disciplinary level, that are aimed at the correct fulfilment of contractual obligations related to the employment relationship that expires on June 30, 2027,” Lecce said in a statement.
The development comes amid speculation surrounding Banda’s future, with the 25-year-old having been linked with a possible move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Fateh SC during the current transfer window.
Banda enjoyed a standout 2025/26 Serie A campaign, finishing as Lecce’s leading attacking contributor after recording five goals and four assists as the club successfully secured their top-flight survival.
The Zambia international played a decisive role in Lecce’s fight to remain in Serie A, scoring crucial goals throughout the season, including the match-winning strike in a 1-0 victory over Genoa CFC on the final day of the campaign.
Banda joined Lecce from Israeli side Maccabi Petah Tikva F.C. in August 2022 and has since become a regular member of the Zambia national team setup.
With his contract at Lecce running until June 2027, the club’s investigation will now determine the circumstances behind his delayed return and whether any disciplinary action will follow. Meanwhile, speculation over his future continues as interest from Saudi Arabia adds another layer to the situation.
