Uganda Premier League giants SC Villa are reportedly interested in signing Lugazi FC left back Richard Ayiko ahead of the 2026/27 season.
According to reports from Swift Sports, the Jogoos are looking to strengthen their left-back position, with Ayiko identified as a potential backup to Kato Ssemayange.
However, SC Villa are expected to face competition from NEC FC, who are also interested in securing the services of the highly-rated defender.
Ayiko’s contract with Lugazi FC expired at the end of the 2025/26 Uganda Premier League season, making him a free agent.
The former BUL FC defender is now free to negotiate with interested clubs and could join either SC Villa or NEC FC, depending on which club successfully completes the deal first.
On Monday, June 1, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) released the timelines for the 2026/27 season, confirming that the primary transfer window will open on July 1 and close on September 19.
SC Villa will be keen to strengthen their squad after ending the 2025/26 campaign without a trophy.
The record Uganda Premier League champions narrowly missed out on silverware after losing 2-1 to Kitara FC in the Stanbic Uganda Cup final.
The 2026/27 Uganda Premier League season is scheduled to kick off on August 28.
It should be noted that players are legally permitted to negotiate with other clubs once they enter the final six months of their contracts.
With his deal now expired, Ayiko is free to discuss terms and sign with any interested club.
About the author
More from this authorGeoffrey Mugabi
Geoffrey Mugabi is an award winning sports journalist with a focus on local sports and a passion for storytelling both on and off the pitch
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