Galatasaray: how Southampton blocked Aribo's transfer

Joe Aribo joined Southampton in the summer 2022 transfer window after an impressive campaign with Rangers FC. The Super Eagles midfielder was not expected to accompany the Saints in the Championship (England’s D2) this season, as he had interest from Turkey. But Southampton had no intention of parting with him, particularly after the Nigerian’s outstanding Premier League campaign last season, with 27 appearances and 2 goals. Southampton wanted to rely on Aribo to return to the English top flight as quickly as possible. Yet that does not appear to be happening. Aribo has played in 12 of the 14 rounds of England’s D2, but as a substitute and for just 147 minutes. That does not please the Super Eagle. In his view, letting him leave would have been the ideal solution, especially as the new coaching staff led by Ruben Selles do not count on his services.

https://twitter.com/ayo_oguntimehin/status/1718177673476813181

Worse still, Aribo even ended up playing for Southampton’s U-21 team. During the summer transfer window, the Nigerian international was linked with Galatasaray. Despite receiving offers, Southampton said no and were unwilling to let him go. Aribo’s Southampton contract is expected to expire in 2026, potentially giving the Hampshire club an opportunity to profit from a sale. With the winter transfer window approaching, Aribo intends to force the issue in an effort to leave Saint Mary Park.

Jim CEESAY