Corrie Ndaba is on the verge of completing a transfer from Kilmarnock to Serie A side Lecce, with the defender currently in Italy to undergo a medical examination.
The 25-year-old is expected to sign a three-year contract with the Italian club, with an option to extend the deal by a further two years. The move, which has developed rapidly in recent days, would see Ndaba make his first move abroad following a standout season in the Scottish Premiership.
Ndaba joined Kilmarnock on a permanent basis in July 2024 after a series of loan spells in England and Scotland. The Irishman previously featured for Ipswich Town, Ayr United, Salford City, Burton Albion, and Fleetwood Town, before finding stability and consistent playing time at Rugby Park.
During the 2024/25 season, Ndaba played an integral role in Kilmarnock’s campaign, making 39 appearances in all competitions. His versatility was a key asset, operating primarily as a left-back but also filling in as a central defender and in midfield when required. He scored one goal and registered one assist during the season.
Lecce, who narrowly avoided relegation from Serie A last season, are undergoing a rebuild under new head coach Eusebio Di Francesco. Strengthening the club’s defence has been identified as a priority, with Ndaba viewed as a potential long-term solution due to his athleticism and adaptability.
The Italian side reportedly reached an agreement with Kilmarnock late last week, prompting Ndaba’s trip to Italy to finalise the move. Although Lecce prematurely published images of the player in club colours on their official media channels, Kilmarnock manager Stuart Kettlewell emphasised that the deal has not yet been completed.
“The medical is happening, but nothing is signed,” Kettlewell told reporters. “Until that happens, Corrie is still a Kilmarnock player.”
Sources close to the deal indicate that the transfer is likely to be confirmed within 24 hours, pending the successful completion of medical checks and final paperwork.
Ndaba’s move would make him the latest in a growing list of players from the Scottish Premiership to join clubs in Italy’s top flight. Should the deal be finalised, he is expected to join Lecce’s pre-season training camp in Bressanone immediately, ahead of the 2025/26 Serie A campaign.
Kilmarnock are now expected to enter the transfer market to find a replacement before the new Scottish Premiership season begins in August.
The move to Italy represents a significant step in Ndaba’s career, offering the defender an opportunity to compete at the highest level of European football.
