JOE ARIBO was a key man under Russell Martin at Southampton.
And many Rangers fans have already been wondering if a reunion could be on the cards after Martin’s appointment at Ibrox.
3
3
3
Martin, 39, was confirmed the Gers’ new head coach this morning.
He’s signed a three-year deal to spearhead the Light Blues’ new era from the dugout.
The former Scotland international returns to management having been out of work since being axed by Southampton in December.
Martin had led the Saints to promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs but was dismissed after a dreadful start to their return to the top flight.
READ MORE RANGERS STORIES
Labelled the ‘outstanding candidate’ by Rangers chiefs, Martin has now officially been installed as head coach.
With the new boss now in place, focus will quickly turn to strengthening the squad at Ibrox.
Joe Aribo enjoyed an excellent three year spell as a Rangers player between 2019 and 2022, playing a key role in the Scottish Premiership title triumph in 2021.
The lure of the Premier League saw the Nigeria international join Southampton in a deal worth up to £10million three years ago.
Aribo’s first season at St Mary’s was a struggle and the Saints were relegated to the Championship.
Martin arrived as manager in 2023 and transformed Aribo’s own fortunes.
Finally regaining his form, Aribo was a key part of Southampton’s promotion back to the top flight.
The 28-year old featured regularly back in the Premier League last season but it proved a miserable campaign as the Saints were relegated, narrowly missing out on recording the worst points total in the division’s history.
Martin was axed mid way through the campaign in December.
There were reports back in January that Aribo had told Saints he wanted to leave at the end of the season.
As many Rangers fans wonder if an Ibrox reunion could be on the cards – both with the club and the new manager – it’s another club who have reportedly made their move.
Turkish outlet Sabah claim that Aribo ‘has received an offer’ from Trabzonspor.
It further reports that permission has been granted for negotiations to begin.
Aribo still has a year left to run on his current contract.
The Turkish club are also reportedly interested in his Southampton teammates Paul Onuachu and Kamaldeen Sulemana.
Read more on the Scottish Sun
A move to Trabzonspor could see Aribo link up with two former Gers teammates, John Lundstram and Borna Barisic.
Those two players joined the club last year but both of their futures are uncertain just a year on.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
