Port Vale have confirmed the departure of midfielder Rico Richards, who has signed a two-year contract with Southend United for an undisclosed fee. The 22-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Walsall, joins the Shrimpers with an option for a third year. Port Vale finished the 2025 League One campaign in 22nd place with 42 points from 46 games, scoring 36 goals and conceding 61.
Richards, a product of Stockport County’s promotion-winning squad in 2023-24, made 11 league appearances during his time there. His move to Southend follows a single start for Walsall in League Two last term. The deal sees him link up with Southend head coach Kieron Dyer, whom he admired as a player.
The sale of Richards marks another change in Port Vale’s squad as they prepare for the 2026-27 season. With the club finishing 22nd in League One last term, 61 points adrift of leaders Lincoln, rebuilding will be key. Their next fixture is an away trip to Rotherham on 9 January 2027.
At Southend, Richards will aim to secure regular first-team football under Dyer’s guidance. The midfielder expressed his eagerness to learn from the former England international, citing Dyer’s experience as a major draw. His versatility could prove valuable for the Shrimpers’ promotion push.
