Joe Aribo, Rangers, Light Blues, Ibrox, SPFL
Aston Villa are one of a number of Premier League clubs interested in signing Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo this summer, according to a recent transfer update.
The Lowdown: Aribo a key man for Rangers
The 25-year-old has stood out as a key figure for the Gers in recent years, scoring eight goals and registering five assists in the Scottish Premiership last season.
Not only that, but Aribo was also integral to Rangers reaching the Europa League final, scoring in the showcase event against Frankfurt last month.
The Nigerian only has one year remaining on his current deal, however, and he is being linked with a move away from Ibrox this summer.
The Latest: Villa linked with move
According to reports in the Scottish press, Villa are one of the clubs interested in signing Aribo as he looks to potentially move south of the border to the Premier League.
Nottingham Forest are the favourites to sign the 25-year-old, though, while Fulham and Crystal Palace are also mentioned as possible suitors, so it looks set to be a hotly contested race for his signature.
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The Verdict: Strong summer addition
With Steven Gerrard arguably in need of midfield reinforcements this summer, Aribo is someone who could provide Villa with an attacking spark in the final third.
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He knows him well from his time as Rangers manager, and the 20-time capped Nigeria international has even been compared to Yaya Toure for boasting delicate feet along with a big physical frame, which speaks volumes about his pedigree.
Indeed, he averaged 2.1 aerial wins per game in the league last season, as well as 1.6 tackles and 1.4 successful dribbles, proving his effectiveness on both sides of the ball.
Aribo has been hailed as ‘incredible’ by sports performance consultant Allistair McCaw after a relentless 2021/22 season in which he played 70 games, and he could help take Villa up another gear with his power and quality in the middle of the park.
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