-Ikenna Okafor
Super Eagles of Nigeria and Rangers of Scotland player, Joe Aribo has reportedly rejected a new contract offer from the Europa Cup finalist
The Nigerian is in the final year of his deal at Ibrox and is attracting interest from several English Premier League clubs, including Southampton, Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and Fulham. While Connor Goldson’s shock decision to commit to the Gers for another four years earlier this summer provides hope that Aribo will do the same, it could be time to cash in.
And now, there are reports that the 25-year-old has turned down fresh terms to stay in Glasgow. That will put the clutch of interest clubs on red alert in the hopes of doing a cut price deal.
Aribo started last season on fire and was being mentioned as a potential Player of the Year winner. However, after returning from the African Cup of Nations with his country, his form dipped. Giovanni van Bronckhorst got him back to near his best as the campaign went on however. He was utilised as an emergency striker after Alfredo Morelos was ruled out for the remainder of the season with a thigh injury, and opened the scoring for Rangers in their Europa League final defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt.
He also led the line in their Scottish Cup final win over Hearts. Goals from Ryan Jack and Scott Wright in extra-time saw the Light Blues get their hands on the famous old trophy for the first time since 2009.
But that may prove to be his final game for the club if he isn’t prepared to sign a new deal. Along with Morelos, Jack and Ryan Kent, Aribo will depart Govan for nothing next summer as things stand.
And with the cash rich English outfits circling, this may be Rangers best chance of securing some sort of fee for him. The money could also help kickstart what has been a quiet transfer window for Van Bronckhorst and director of football Ross Wilson so far.
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