Super Eagles: Key factor behind Joe Aribo’s possible return to Rangers

Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo could be heading back to the Scottish Premiership side Rangers this summer, once a key condition is satisfied, Afrik‑Foot reports.

Aribo spent three successful years at Rangers between 2019 and 2022 after moving from Charlton Athletic. During his time in Scotland he established himself as an important player before leaving for England in a deal worth up to around £10 million.

The 29‑year‑old is now set to become a free agent, with his contract at Southampton expiring at the end of the month, bringing an end to his four‑year spell at St Mary’s. He made 111 appearances across all competitions for the club, although only seven came last season.

Aribo was absent from pre‑season action and fell out of favour under then‑manager Will Still, who initially froze him out of the squad before he was later reinstated. He then spent a short loan spell at Leicester City after joining during the winter transfer window, although the move did little to revive his form, as he managed just six appearances for the Foxes.

Joe Aribo. Photo by Icon Sport

Rangers eye Joe Aribo reunion

According to reports from Football Insider, Rangers are considering a move to bring Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo back to Ibrox this summer on a free transfer, once his Southampton contract officially expires.

The Light Blues are in need of significant reinforcement ahead of next season after falling short in their bid to win silverware in the previous campaign, and are preparing several transfer moves to strengthen the squad.

They have already agreed a deal for Scotland forward Lawrence Shankland, who will join from Hearts when the summer transfer window opens on June 15. Meanwhile, they are also interested in signing Nigerian youngster Akpe Victory from the Hungarian league, as well as Ryan Alebiosu from Blackburn Rovers.

Although the Super Eagles midfielder would represent a strong addition on a free transfer, the deal may largely depend on whether Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard returns to the club as head coach this summer. However, he could still join under a different manager.

Gerrard and Aribo previously enjoyed success together at Rangers, and the midfielder would be keen on reuniting with his former coach.

Steven Gerrard on punditry duty. Copyright: ImagoxGrahamxHuntx

Rangers are currently preparing for a managerial change, with Danny Rohl expected to leave the club to join Red Bull Salzburg, despite only recently arriving. Gerrard has emerged as one of the names being considered as a potential replacement.

Why the move makes sense for the Super Eagles midfielder

Joe Aribo’s previous spell at Rangers was very successful, and he is already familiar with the environment at Ibrox Stadium, which makes the option of a return very attractive.

The 29‑year‑old was a fan favourite during his time at the club and will need little time to adapt. During his first stint, Aribo won two major trophies with Rangers – the Scottish Premiership title in the 2020–21 season and the Scottish Cup in the 2021–22 campaign.

Joe Aribo. [Photo Credit/ Imago].

He was also part of the squad that reached the 2022 UEFA Europa League final, where he scored in the penalty shootout defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt after a 1–1 draw in normal time.

At 29, he still has several years left at a high level and will be looking to rebuild his career while also pushing for a return to the Super Eagles setup under head coach Eric Chelle, with his last invitation coming in 2025.

Aribo will carefully consider his options, but Rangers could emerge as his next destination as he prepares for the next phase of his career.