It was all quiet at Rangers on the deadline day except for a couple of loan exits, however, the late arrival for national duty followed by the comments from manager Gernot Rohr has sparked speculations over the future of Joe Aribo amid claims of ‘concrete interest’ from Premier League (reported by African outlets, as cited by the Daily Record).
“We are ready, we are still missing two players or three (Aribo, Paul Onuachu, Chidozie Awaziem), they will arrive tonight or tomorrow. These players were concerned by transfer problems so they could not be here with us since yesterday (Tuesday).”
Revealed the Super Eagles chief Gernot Rohr while speaking to the Nigerian media (quoted by the Daily Record).
Aribo had his offers in England following a blistering spell with Charlton Athletic in League One, but he travelled north of the border to develop his game under the tutelage of Steven Gerrard. The 25-year-old has been immense ever since in the middle of the park and is impressive so far this term despite an early blip from the Glasgow giants.
Rangers have secured an array of Bosman transfers in recent years. Although the likes of John Lundstram, Fashion Sakala and Nnamdi Ofoborh are yet to flourish in the new surroundings, Aribo is arguably the best of the lot along with Steven Davis following a summer switch back in 2019.
The ever-present midfield ace offers flexibility in the centre of the pitch. He is comfortable in various midfield roles, also as a wide attacking option down the right-hand flank. He loves to dribble, exhibits great composure with the ball at his feet and covers a lot of ground as one of their chief ball carriers. He is often handed a free role that allows him to link up with the attackers high up the pitch.
Why Rangers Might Eventually Lose Aribo In The Coming Days
A disappointing defeat against Malmo shattered the Gers’ Champions League dreams last month. The financial complications would haunt them soon unless they succeed to generate enough funds from players’ sales. Celtic were in shambles last season, yet the big-money egress of Jeremie Frimpong, Odsonne Edouard and Kristoffer Ajer restored stability overcoming the monetary constraints.
Porto were supposed to rope in Alfredo Morelos but failed to meet Rangers’ demands. However, the Bears can’t afford to keep hold of their prized assets forever and therefore, should stay prepared for another offer once the window reopens in winter. It’s been the same for Aribo and Glen Kamara, who are destined for high-profile moves in the forthcoming future.
