Rangers are closing in on a deal to bring Joe Aribo to Ibrox.
According to the Glasgow Evening Times, Rangers still have work to do on a deal for Joe Aribo – but he’s interested in a move to Ibrox in order to work with Steven Gerrard.
Aribo, 22, hit 10 goals and five assists in all competitions for Charlton Athletic this past season, playing a key role in the Addicks’ promotion back to the Championship.
Yet with Lee Bowyer set to leave, Aribo could move on too, as his contract expires this month – and the Daily Mail (17 June, page 77) claim Rangers have offered him a £20,000-a-week deal in an attempt to beat the competition to his signature.
It’s now claimed that Aribo’s most likely destination is Ibrox as he wants to play for Gerrard, but there is still work to be done before the exciting midfielder can be called a Rangers player.
Aribo’s pace and skill through the middle of the park can bring real creativity to this Rangers side, and they’ll be able to land him for a bargain compensation fee thanks to cross-border contract rules.
Aribo has been linked with Premier League clubs, but the idea that he wants to join Rangers in order to play for Gerrard is another sign of just what a huge attraction the Gers boss is.
A legend of the game, just the chance to play for Gerrard is helping Rangers bring in a high calibre of player, and the lure is even stronger for midfielders who no doubt grew up idolising the ex-Liverpool hero – players such as Aribo.
Rangers will now hope to get a deal done quickly before any other clubs can hijack the deal, and they’ll once again have the lure of playing for Gerrard to thank if Aribo does arrive at Ibrox.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
