Leicester City have completed the signing of Nigerian midfielder Joe Aribo on loan from Southampton until the end of the season, as the Foxes move to reinforce their injury-hit midfield.
The 29-year-old arrives at the King Power Stadium with Leicester currently without key players Jordan James and Aaron Ramsey, who are sidelined until March. Hamza Choudhury is also awaiting scans on a potential knee injury, leaving the club short of options in the centre of the pitch.
Leicester recently sold Boubakary Soumare, creating further need for depth in midfield.
Aribo has struggled for minutes at Southampton this season, making just seven Championship appearances, none as a starter. With his contract set to expire in the summer, the move could open the door for a permanent free transfer if he impresses during his loan spell.
He is expected to compete with Louis Page for the number eight role but offers versatility, capable of playing across all three central midfield positions.
Aribo’s journey to the top has been unconventional. He began in non-league football, moved to Charlton Athletic, and later earned a high-profile transfer to Rangers, where he enjoyed some of the best form of his career.
During his time in Scotland, he helped Rangers win the Scottish Premiership and reach the Europa League final, contributing 18 goals and 11 assists in 92 league matches.
The London-born midfielder joined Southampton in 2022 and featured in 32 Premier League games last season, scoring three goals. However, relegation and a change in coaching staff reduced his involvement this term.
Former Southampton manager Russell Martin, who previously worked closely with Aribo, praised the Nigerian’s professionalism and character.
“He’s been amazing. He’s a brilliant teammate, an amazing character. He’s humble, works hard, smiling,” Martin said after a play-off win against Swansea.
Aribo also remains a fan favourite at Ibrox, remembered for scoring in Rangers’ 2022 Europa League final against Eintracht Frankfurt.
With Southampton interim coach Tonda Eckert open to departures during the transfer window, the loan move offers Aribo a fresh start and Leicester a timely boost as they push through the second half of the season.
If the midfielder can rediscover his Rangers form, Leicester may have secured a bargain addition to their squad.
