It has been claimed tonight that Southampton are in talks with Rangers to take Joe Aribo to the South coast.
With the purported £10 million release clause said to be in the Nigerian international’s contract, Ibrox chiefs will not want to entertain any kind of deal less than that, as has been put forward by The Athletic.
David Ornstein and Jordan Campbell from that outlet have said that the potential transfer is now in play:
“Southampton are in negotiations to sign Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo, The Athletic understands.”
“The versatile 25-year-old is believed to be keen on joining Ralf Hassenhuttl’s side and the clubs are now working to agree a fee.”
“Aribo’s contract has always included a £10 million release clause and it is understood that Rangers will not accept a total package below that value.”
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It is likely that Rangers transfer window will now truly be under way, with this business.
As long as the Saints are prepared to meet Rangers demands, an agreement is well within reach as well as flushing out other interested clubs who may have been holding back for now.
Previously, Crystal Palace, Fulham, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest were all linked with Aribo, who has served Rangers very well since his move from Charlton Athletic in 2019.
Recent soundings from media outlets close to Rangers all pointed to an amicable parting of the ways between player and club this Summer in what would be the conclusion of a mutually beneficial arrangement. The 25-year old attacker has become a better player, a valued part of the Super Eagles team as well as a Scottish title and cup winner.
From a personal perspective, he will always have the accolade of scoring a goal in a European final, Rangers first in 50 years in terms of a goal in a Euro decider.
If this is the beginning of the end, he will leave with his head very high and the collective best wishes of the Rangers support.
Transfer window, here we go…