Joe Aribo 'in pole position' over Rangers contract negotiations

Joe Aribo is in ‘pole position’ the longer Rangers are unable to tie the in-demand midfielder down to an extended contract, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Aribo has entered the final year-and-a-half of his £14,000-per-week contract, leading to major question marks over where his long-term future lies.

According to The Scottish Sun, Rangers are set to open talks over Aribo potentially extending his stay at Ibrox.

The report suggests boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst sees the 25-year-old as a ‘very important’ member of his squad and the Dutchman has called for the hierarchy to ensure long-term plans are put in place.

However, All Nigeria Soccer have claimed Rangers are prepared to sell Aribo for a cut-price fee when the transfer window reopens in the summer.

It comes amid interest from Premier League sides Crystal Palace, Watford, Brentford, Southampton and Aston Villa, who are looking to take advantage of the 15-cap Nigeria international’s precarious contract situation.

Rangers are reportedly seeking £10million for Aribo’s services and he has been placed at the top of Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira’s wishlist.

Gary Neville EXPOSES Man United star! Hear more on The Football Terrace…

O’Rourke understands Rangers would rather keep Aribo at the club but fears they are gradually moving into a weaker position by allowing the contract saga to continue.

The journalist believes the reigning Scottish Premiership champions could be left with no option but to sell the central midfielder, hinting Aribo may make huge wage demands due to knowing of extensive interest.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “Rangers would love to tie him down to a new contract. But the longer his contract drags on without him signing, it puts the player in