If a report from The Athletic is believed to be accurate, Rangers star Joe Aribo is a ‘serious’ target for Crystal Palace ahead of the upcoming summer window. The Nigerian enjoyed a productive spell for both club and the country, and the Gers must now be sweating over the future of their prized asset with just a year left in his Ibrox deal.
Born in England, Aribo began his career with non-league side Staines Town before joining Charlton Athletic after a successful trial. He spent four seasons at the Valley and helped the Addicks grab a Championship promotion back in 2019. Despite a new and improved contract offer, the 25-year-old midfield ace joined Steven Gerrard’s Rangers.
It took him little time to attune to the demand and aggression of the Scottish game. Soon he became irreplaceable in the centre of the pitch, while his versatility saw him featuring down the right-hand flank on several occasions. New boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst is an admirer of Aribo’s potential and therefore, deployed him as a makeshift ‘False 9’ both in the Europa League and Scottish Cup finals. He even found the net against Eintracht Frankfurt while spearheading the attack.
The Super Eagles international also operated as an attacking playmaker in Van Bronckhorst’s 4-2-3-1, but the holding midfield role suits him the most, given his calmness and creative spark. The off the ball work rate, driving runs and link-up play exhibit his all-round ability in the middle of the park.
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Palace, meanwhile, are undergoing a transition since the appointment of Patrick Vieira as the new Selhurst Park chief. They had some big results in 2020-21 under his tutelage, but the lack of consistency must be addressed with significant reinforcements.
Conor Gallagher enjoyed an exquisite spell on loan from Chelsea. However, the youngster’s return to his parent club has now left a massive void in midfield and Aribo, with his flexibility and game-reading ability, could be a perfect fit if a fee is agreed upon.
The Gers have an array of midfield options in their ranks as the likes of Ryan Jack, John Lundstram, Glen Kamara and James Sands are pushing each other for the starting status. Veteran Steven Davis and Scott Arfield have extended their stay to offer depth and cover, but they must do everything within their limits to keep hold of Aribo. Having said that, an offer should be entertained by the Light Blues in case they fail to tie down the Nigerian on a long-term contract.
