Port Vale sign Richards from Villa on permanent deal

Rico Richards (left) has won promotion in his career twice - with Stockport County in 2023-24 and Port Vale this season

Promoted Port Vale have made their second signing ahead of their return to League One next season with the arrival of attacking midfielder Rico Richards from Aston Villa on a permanent deal.

Richards was part of Vale's successful promotion campaign last term during his season-long loan from the Premier League club.

He played in 27 league games, with 19 of those appearances from the bench.

Richards, 21, has agreed a two-year contract until the end of the 2026-27 season.

Vale boss Darren Moore said he was "delighted" to see Richards back at the club.

"He showed last season that he's a player that can affect games for us and really get supporters off their seats," Moore said.

"He's someone I've known for a long time and he's already got a good level of experience under his belt at a young age.

"We're all glad that he'll be continuing his development here at Port Vale."

Richards is Vale's second new recruit following Blackpool wing-back Jordan Gabriel, while defenders Mitchell Clark and Kyle John have agreed new contracts.