Joe Aribo thanks Rangers fans as Southampton move confirmed

Joe Aribo has thanked Rangers fans for their support as he finalised his move to Southampton.

Rangers have been in advanced talks with the English Premier League side over the last week and the move was completed on Saturday with the Ibrox side saying they received a “significant fee” for the player.

The player, who was entering the final year of his contract at Ibrox and had a £10m release clause, has signed a four-year deal with the Saints.

Aribo moved to Ibrox from Charlton in 2019 and went on to be an important member of the Rangers squad. He helped the team to the Premiership title in 2021 and was part of the side that made a run all the way to the Europa League final last season. He made 149 appearances for the club and scored 26 goals.

He told Southampton’s website: “It’s an amazing club with a lot of history here, and it’s a good plan with what’s to come next. I’m really excited for the journey.

“The Premier League is the best league in the world. I’ve been watching it since I was a young boy, it’s always been a goal for me to play here and show what I can do on this stage.

“It’s an amazing feeling, a dream come true. This is where I’ve wanted to be since I was a child growing up playing, so to say that I’m here now is really exciting.”

The Nigeria international also took to social media to say goodbye to the Rangers support and to thank them for their backing during his time in Glasgow.

“It’s been an amazing journey being part of this special club,” Aribo wrote on his Instagram page. “I hold @rangersfc very close to my heart as they gave me the opportunity to showcase my talent on a bigger stage.

“Playing at Ibrox was a dream & I’m glad I got to experience it. I’m happy I was able to play a part in the historic 55 league title-winning season.

“I’d like to thank everyone associated with this great club for all you’ve done for me during my time here, you’ve always made me feel welcome & I’ve always had your full support.

“I’ve developed into an even better player, credit to the supporters who always had my back and stayed patient during the tough times.

“We created a lot of memories together, memories that I will carry with me throughout the rest of my career. I wish the club nothing but the best for the future & I’ll always be checking in. Joe Aribo.”

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhüttl said: “Joe is a player with many qualities to his game, and we are very excited to welcome him to the squad in time for the pre-season trip to Austria.

“We believe Joe can bring energy and creativity to our side. Feeling comfortable in so many different positions is very helpful for a manager and shows he has a high level of football intelligence, with the ability to take on new information quickly.

“He has played a lot of games already in his career, at a very high level, and his performances in the Europa League prove he has the quality to play in the Premier League. This is a big ambition for him, and he is hungry to show everybody he can do it.”