Rico Richards from Aston Villa has been officially signed by Port Vale.
Rico Richards has signed a two-year contract with newly promoted Port Vale from Premier League team Aston Villa. The transfer follows a fruitful season-long loan during which the 21-year-old was instrumental in the Valiants’ League Two promotion triumph.
Following a major admission by CEO Matt Hancock, the revelation may mark the beginning of a hectic summer at Vale Park. Hancock claims that in order to bolster his promoted team, the club would provide manager Darren Moore with a competitive transfer budget.
Hero of Port Vale Promotion Returns
Rico Richards’ permanent signing is probably going to give Vale supporters a lot of heart. Despite the fact that he is still in his early career, he gave Port Vale’s midfield valuable expertise that helped them earn promotion.
Richards, according to his management, deserves to show off his skills in League One after earning his second consecutive promotion in League Two last season after excelling with Stockport County the year before.
He became well-known in the centre of the park after making 32 appearances for Vale in 2024–2025. He helped his team finish in second place with four goals and an equal amount of assists.
When he was a young player for his boyhood team, West Bromwich Albion, Aston Villa, a team in the Midlands, saw his promise and signed him in 2023. However, this is his first long-term senior transfer to the Potteries.
Darren Moore Is Happy to See the Aston Villa Loanee Again
During his loan stint, Richards established himself as a player who could turn a game around from the bench. Darren Moore frequently looked to him in trying times, and he usually returned the favour.
The 51-year-old is obviously thrilled to have Richards on board for the upcoming two seasons. He has discussed how the midfield player has given his squad invaluable talent and demonstrated expertise beyond his years.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rico back to the team permanently. He shown last season that he is a player who can influence games for us and truly excite fans. Moore said on the club website for Port Vale.
After bouncing back and forth between the third and fourth divisions in previous seasons, Port Vale will look to solidify when they rejoin League One. Following their quick recovery, Vale fans will be thrilled to hear that they will receive a sizable transfer budget.
Their home and away consistency this season was a major factor in their 80-point total. They scored 37 points away from home to support their outstanding 43 points at Vale Park. Given that record, it’s understandable that Darren Moore wants to bring his vetted and reliable guys back together.
Having won the race to recruit Jordan Gabriel when his Blackpool contract expired, they have undoubtedly got their stall out early. Following a stellar season the previous year, Port Vale will be looking to retain their current team while making strategic additions.
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