With Russell Martin set to be introduced as the new Head Coach at Ibrox, and with a Sporting Director in Kevin Thelwell already in place alongside Technical Director Dan Purdy, Rangers are now primed and ready to enter the transfer market for the first time under their new American-based owners following last week’s takeover.
There will be plenty of new faces arriving at the club, but with former Southampton boss Martin taking charge, could we be about to witness the return of a fan favourite and title winner?
Joe Aribo first joined Rangers from Charlton Athletic in the summer of 2019 under Steven Gerrard for a compensation fee. He quickly became a fan favourite, whether in midfield, on the wing, or even occasionally at left-back or up front, thanks to his elastic close control, striking ability, and composure under pressure.
Aribo scored 26 goals and registered 25 assists in his 149 appearances during his first spell at Ibrox, staying for three seasons. He capped his time at the club with a goal in the 2022 UEFA Europa League Final against Eintracht Frankfurt and a Scottish Cup winner’s medal, in addition to his 2020/21 league title.
He joined then-Premier League side Southampton, but both he and the club have endured a turbulent three years. Two relegations from the English top flight were split by a promotion-winning season under Martin in the Championship, a campaign that earned praise for its expansive and fluid style of play.
Aribo has scored nine goals and provided just one assist during his time at St Mary’s. Despite making over 100 appearances, his minutes have been inconsistent, and a return north of the border this summer could appeal as he seeks regular football once more under a familiar manager.
A return to Ibrox would be warmly welcomed. The addition of a proven winner with experience at the club would be a significant boost for what promises to be a new-look squad.