Asante Kotoko have reportedly opened preliminary talks with free agent Richmond Lamptey over a possible return to the club, although negotiations are still at an early stage.

The experienced midfielder is understood to be attracting interest from several Ghana Premier League clubs as well as teams abroad, with no agreement yet reached over his next destination.

Lamptey is no stranger to the Porcupine Warriors, having enjoyed a successful three-year spell at the Baba Yara Stadium after joining the club from Inter Allies in September 2021 on a three-year contract.

During his time at Kotoko, the central midfielder established himself as one of the club's most dependable performers, helping the Reds win the 2021/22 Ghana Premier League title under Prosper Narteh Ogum. He made regular appearances across three seasons and was admired for his composure on the ball, passing range, leadership and ability to shield the back four.

After leaving Kotoko by mutual consent in June 2024, Lamptey signed a two-year contract with Rwandan giants APR FC. He enjoyed an impressive debut season, helping the club secure the Rwanda Premier League, Peace Cup and Heroes Cup, while also featuring in the CECAFA Kagame Interclub Cup.

His impressive displays in Rwanda earned him a move to Libyan side Al-Ittihad Misurata SC in September 2025, where he continued his career before becoming a free agent.

• 2023/24: Asante Kotoko – Key first-team midfielder before leaving the club by mutual consent at the end of the campaign.

• 2024/25: Joined APR FC (Rwanda) on a two-year deal and won the Rwanda Premier League, Peace Cup and Heroes Cup.

• 2025/26: Transferred to Libyan club Al-Ittihad Misurata SC before becoming a free agent.

Kotoko are keen to strengthen their squad as they continue rebuilding for the remainder of the season, and Lamptey's familiarity with the club, experience in the Ghana Premier League and success abroad make him an attractive option.

However, with interest from both domestic and foreign clubs, the Kumasi-based giants could face stiff competition for the signature of the former Black Stars B midfielder should negotiations progress in the coming weeks.