Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo finds himself at a crossroads as his future with Southampton continues to hang in the balance.
At 29, with a contract that runs until 2026, the midfielder has not featured for the Saints this season and was conspicuously absent from preseason preparations. For many, that’s as clear a sign as any that both player and club are preparing for a parting of ways.
Aribo’s situation mirrors that of his compatriot Paul Onuachu, who already left the South Coast for Turkey earlier this summer. The expectation was that Aribo would follow suit, but Southampton’s valuation of the Nigerian has so far proven to be a stumbling block.
While the club are open to cashing in, they are not desperate to sell, especially not at a cut-price.
4 major clubs eyeing Joe Aribo ahead of potential summer move from Southampton
The Saints are reportedly holding out for around €6 million, but the story took a twist when Bundesliga side RB Leipzig tested the waters with a €10 million bid.
Surprisingly, that offer was turned down, leaving observers puzzled as Southampton, recently relegated to the Championship, continue to play hardball.
Still, transfer rumors refuse to die down, with strong suggestions that Aribo could be on the move before the window slams shut.
The big question is: where next for the former Rangers man?
Burnley
Newly promoted Burnley have been linked with the versatile midfielder, and on paper, it feels like a solid fit. Scott Parker is eager to bolster his squad with Premier League experience after a difficult start to life back in the top flight.
Aribo, who can operate both in midfield and defence, would offer the Clarets tactical flexibility and depth. His price tag and wage demands are also within Burnley’s reach, making this a move that ticks several boxes.
Rangers
A potential return to Rangers is also on the cards. Russell Martin is reportedly a big admirer of Aribo, and with Rangers chasing silverware on multiple fronts, a reunion could be mutually beneficial.
Aribo enjoyed a highly successful spell in Glasgow, racking up 149 appearances, 26 goals, and 25 assists in two and a half seasons.
He remains a fan favorite at Ibrox, and sources close to Footy-Africa suggest he would be open to the move if the bid matches Southampton’s valuation. A second stint in Scotland could revive his career in familiar surroundings.
RB Leipzig
The most intriguing link remains RB Leipzig. Reports claim the German side already had a bid rejected, but with transfer deadline day fast approaching, there’s every chance they’ll return with an improved offer.
For Aribo, this would represent a huge career shift as it will be a first move outside the United Kingdom, and a chance to test himself in the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
At 29, the timing feels right for such a leap, but much depends on Leipzig’s persistence and Southampton’s willingness to compromise.
Trabzonspor
Finally, Turkish giants Trabzonspor are long-time admirers of the Nigerian. Having tracked him for nearly two years, this could be their best chance to finally land him.
With fellow Super Eagle Wilfred Ndidi, who was also relegated with Leicester City, already making the switch to Turkey with Besiktas, Aribo might find extra motivation to follow suit.
Turkey has often provided Nigerian stars with a platform to shine, and Trabzonspor would offer him both playing time and continental exposure.
For now, Aribo remains frozen out at Southampton, not involved in training sessions or match-day squads, a clear indication that his time at St. Mary’s is winding down.
The Saints are stuck between maximizing his value and avoiding the risk of losing him for free later.
Meanwhile, Aribo waits patiently for the right move to materialize.
