Joe Aribo Rangers transfer latest as Southampton emerge as 'frontrunners' for Ibrox man

Joe Aribo is a transfer target for Southampton with the English Premier League side emerging as the frontrunners to sign the Rangers star, according to a report.

The Nigerian international is entering the final 12 months of his current deal at Ibrox and Gers chiefs face a huge call this summer as they decide whether to keep him or cash in now. Interest is high in the 25-year-old, who is one of a number of top team stars at Rangers in the final 12 months of their deal. Aribo arrived from Charlton for £300,000 under Steven Gerrard and has established himself as a key player at the club ever since.

Crystal Palace, Fulham and Nottingham Forest have all been previously linked with Aribo but Southampton are also now eyeing up a summer swoop reports the Daily Record.

Rangers could risk losing Aribo next summer for nothing if he stays - but former Aston Villa star Gabby Agbonlahor expects a number of clubs down south to show firm interest before the transfer window slams shut amid rumours of a £10million release clause in his deal.

He said: “There will be clubs interested in Joe Aribo.

"If there is a £10million release clause I’m sure that will be met because of what he showed in the (Europa League) final with his goal.

"Every time I watched him over the last couple of seasons he’s been a player that’s stood out for me.

"He’s very comfortable on the ball, always shows that work rate and can play a number of positions. He’s a top player who Rangers will not want to lose, definitely.”

Giovanni van Bronckhorst's men fly out to Portugal today for a warm-weather pre-season training camp as they ramp up the hard work ahead of the new campaign.

The Light Blues face Champions League qualifiers in a matter of weeks while the