We are delighted to announce the permanent signing of Rico Richards, as our second new addition of the summer transfer window.
The popular attacking midfielder - who spent last season on loan at the club from Aston Villa – joins on a two-year deal, having helped the Valiants earn promotion in 2024/25.
Richards made 32 appearances in all competitions and scored four goals as we secured a second-placed finish in Sky Bet League Two. He was previously promoted from the division while on loan at Stockport County in 2023/24.
The 21-year-old will now remain at Vale Park until at least the end of the 2026/27 campaign.
Speaking about the signing, first-team manager Darren Moore said: “We’re delighted to be bringing Rico back to the club on a permanent basis. He showed last season that he’s a player that can affect games for us and really get supporters off their seats.
“He’s someone I've known for a long time; he's already got a good level of experience under his belt at a young age and we’re all glad that he’ll be continuing his development here at Port Vale.”
Everyone at the club would like to congratulate Rico and welcome him back to the club.