Leicester City secure Joe Aribo on season-long loan from Southampton

Leicester City have completed the loan signing of Nigerian midfielder Joe Aribo from Southampton until the end of the season as they seek to reinforce their midfield amid a mounting injury crisis, Sport360NG reports.

The 29-year-old arrives at the King Power Stadium with Leicester currently without Jordan James and Aaron Ramsey, both sidelined until March, while Hamza Choudhury is awaiting assessment on a suspected serious knee injury. The Foxes have also reshaped their squad this month following the departure of French midfielder Boubakary Soumare, who moved to Qatar last week.

Aribo has struggled for opportunities at Southampton this campaign, making seven Championship appearances, all from the bench. With his contract set to expire in the summer, the move presents Leicester with the option of a permanent deal should the midfielder impress during his loan spell.

Primarily expected to compete with Louis Page for the number eight role during James’ absence, Aribo’s versatility could see him deployed across multiple central midfield positions.

The London-born midfielder’s career began in non-league football with Staines Town before progressing to Charlton Athletic and later earning a high-profile move to Rangers. His spell at Ibrox marked the most productive period of his career, as he helped the Scottish side clinch the Premiership title and reach the Europa League final, contributing 18 goals and 11 assists in 92 league appearances over three seasons.

Aribo joined Southampton in 2022 and was a regular figure in the Premier League last season, featuring in 32 of the club’s 38 matches and scoring three times. However, the Saints’ relegation and changes within the coaching setup curtailed his involvement this term.

Former Southampton manager Russell Martin, who has been linked with the Leicester job, previously praised Aribo’s professionalism and attitude during their time together.

Aribo remains fondly remembered by Rangers supporters, having scored in the 2022 Europa League final defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt, cementing his place in the club’s recent history.

Southampton interim head coach Tonda Eckert had earlier signalled the club’s willingness to sanction departures during the January transfer window, paving the way for Aribo’s temporary switch to Leicester.