Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo is poised to leave Sky Bet Championship club Southampton this summer.
The Nigerian international is evaluating his future at St Mary’s Stadium following the club’s relegation from the Premier League last season. Aribo was not included in the matchday squad for Southampton’s 2-1 victory over Wrexham on Saturday.
The midfielder also featured minimally for the club during pre-season, missing out on the friendlies against Brighton & Hove Albion and Eastleigh.
He was named in the squad for the match against Espanyol and appeared as a second-half substitute against CD Castellon. The 29-year-old only started in the game against Valenciennes and was substituted in the match against Gillingham.
Manager Will Still has indicated that Aribo’s time at the club is coming to an end. Still’s remarks prior to Southampton’s clash with Wrexham confirmed the former Charlton star’s desire to seek opportunities elsewhere.
“There are a few players at a critical juncture in their careers making choices. Tyler [Dibling], Sam [Edozie], and Joe [Aribo] won’t be there [against Wrexham],” he stated.
A number of top clubs in Europe have expressed interest in Aribo, with Aston Villa, Villarreal, and Red Bull Salzburg reportedly in the race for his signature. RB Leipzig has also submitted a €10 million offer to Southampton for the player.
