Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo is edging closer to a move away from Southampton, with a number of top European clubs lining up for his signature, Footynaija.com reports.
Aribo is understood to be weighing his options following the Saints’ relegation from the Premier League last season. His absence from Southampton’s 2-1 victory over Wrexham on Saturday was the latest sign that his time at St Mary’s may be coming to an end.
Aribo’s involvement during the Saints’ pre-season was also minimal. He missed friendlies against Brighton and Eastleigh entirely, was only named on the bench for the clash with Espanyol and featured as a second half substitute in the game against CD Castellon.
The 29-year-old midfielder’s only start came in the fixture against Valenciennes, while he was introduced from the bench against Gillingham.
Southampton boss Will Still appeared to confirm speculation about Aribo’s future ahead of the Wrexham match. He revealed that the Super Eagles star as well as a couple of other players were deliberately left out as they were assessing their futures and weighing up their next moves.
Interest in the Nigerian international is strong. Premier League side Aston Villa, Spanish outfit Villarreal and Austrian champions Red Bull Salzburg are all reportedly monitoring his situation.
German Bundesliga club RB Leipzig have also been credited with a serious interest in the versatile midfielder and were reported to be willing to part ways with €10 million to lure him away from the Championship.
Signed from Rangers in 2022, Aribo arrived at Southampton with a reputation for versatility and skill. However, his limited role in the current setup suggests the Nigerian’s next chapter may be written outside of St Mary’s, and possibly outside of England entirely.