SUPER Eagles’ Joe Aribo has been linked with a sensational return to Scottish Premiership giants Rangers following his departure from Southampton, raising the possibility of an emotional reunion with the club where he enjoyed some of the most successful years of his career.
News Point Nigeria Sport reports that the midfielder recently became a free agent after his contract with Southampton FC expired, bringing an end to his four-year stay at St Mary’s Stadium. His departure has immediately sparked speculation over his next destination, with former club Rangers FC reportedly among those interested in securing his services.
Aribo joined Southampton in a £10 million deal from Rangers in 2022 after establishing himself as one of the Scottish club’s most influential players.
His move to the English club came on the back of a series of impressive performances that enhanced his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most consistent midfielders in Europe.
However, the 29-year-old endured a difficult final season at Southampton, struggling to secure regular playing time. In a bid to revive his fortunes, he was loaned to Leicester City FC in January, but opportunities remained limited at the King Power Stadium.
During his loan spell, Aribo made only six appearances and was handed just one start, leaving him unable to make the impact many had expected. The lack of consistent game time ultimately contributed to his departure from Southampton at the expiration of his contract.
A return to Rangers would represent a reunion with a club where Aribo enjoyed a highly successful three-year spell. During his first stint at Ibrox, he played a key role in helping the Glasgow side win the Scottish Premiership title and the Scottish Cup, while also becoming a fan favourite for his energy, versatility and crucial contributions in big matches.
One of the defining moments of Aribo’s Rangers career came in the 2022 UEFA Europa League final. The Nigerian international scored for Rangers in the showpiece match, although the Scottish club eventually suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt.
With Aribo now available on a free transfer and seeking a fresh start, reports linking him with a return to Rangers are likely to excite supporters who still remember his contributions during one of the club’s most successful recent periods.
Whether the move materialises remains to be seen, but a potential return to Ibrox could offer the midfielder an opportunity to reignite his career at a familiar and successful environment.
