Leicester City have signed Nigerian midfielder Joe Aribo on loan from Southampton until the end of the season. The 29-year-old moves to the King Power Stadium as the club looks to strengthen its midfield due to a growing injury list.
Leicester are currently without Jordan James and Aaron Ramsey, who are both sidelined until March, while Hamza Choudhury is set to undergo a scan on a possible knee injury. The club also recently confirmed the departure of Boubakary Soumare, who moved to Qatar.
Aribo has struggled for regular game time at Southampton this season, making only seven Championship appearances without starting any match. With his contract set to expire in the summer, Leicester may consider a permanent move if he impresses during his loan spell.
He is expected to compete for a place in the number eight role, especially while James remains unavailable. Aribo’s versatility, however, allows him to operate in different positions across the midfield.
The midfielder began his career in non-league football before moving to Charlton Athletic and later earning a move to Rangers. At the Scottish club, he enjoyed some of his best seasons, helping Rangers win the Scottish Premiership and reach the Europa League final.
During his time at Rangers, Aribo scored 18 goals and provided 11 assists in 92 league appearances. His performances earned him a move to Southampton in 2022.
Last season, he featured in 32 Premier League matches for the Saints and scored three goals. However, Southampton’s relegation and changes in the technical crew have reduced his involvement this term.
Former Southampton manager Russell Martin, who previously worked with Aribo, once praised the midfielder’s attitude and professionalism. Aribo also remains a popular figure among Rangers fans after scoring in the Europa League final against Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022.
Southampton’s interim coach had earlier indicated that the club was open to allowing some players to leave during the January transfer window, paving the way for Aribo’s move to Leicester.