Rangers star Joe Aribo is wanted by Southampton as they look to fend off interest from Premier League rivals like Nottingham Forest and Fulham.
The Gers secured an absolute bargain when they raided Charlton Athletic for Aribo’s signature back in the summer of 2019.
Aribo was out of contract and Rangers were able to exploit cross-border contract rules to sign the midfielder for just £300,000.
It quickly became clear that Aribo was really worth much, much more as his close control and driving runs excited the Ibrox faithful.
Last season was Aribo’s best yet, racking up nine goals and 10 assists in a superb campaign, including a goal in the Europa League final against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Rangers star Joe Aribo is wanted by Southampton
The Nigeria international has shown his quality in Scotland and in Europe now and a move back to England could be on the cards.
Aribo is out of contract next summer and Rangers must now decided whether they want to sell now or risk losing him for nothing next year.
Aribo, 25, is now attracting major Premier League interest and it’s Southampton who look most likely to make a move.
The Daily Record claim that Southampton are emerging as the favourites to sign Aribo having scouted him extensively last season.
Crystal Palace, Fulham and Nottingham Forest are also understood to be keen but it’s Southampton pushing themselves to the front of the queue.
The report adds that there are murmurings of a £10million release clause in Aribo’s deal, but his contract situation means clubs will try to sign him for cheaper.
The Daily Mail add that Southampton are hoping to fend off Forest and Fulham in the race for Aribo, with Rangers potentially listening to offers.
Southampton have raided Scottish football many times over the years but it’s usually Celtic they target; Fraser Forster, Virgil van Dijk, Stuart Armstrong and Victor Wanyama all traded Celtic for the Saints.
It may be Rangers this time with Aribo wanted on the South Coast, but promoted duo Forest and Fulham won’t back away easily.
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