Southampton closing in on a summer move for Rangers star Joe Aribo

Southampton are reportedly closing in on a summer transfer for highly-rated Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo.

David Ornstein reports the talks are ongoing between the two clubs, and the Scottish outfit are not willing to accept any offer below his £10 million release clause.

However, Fabrizio Romano claims that a deal is getting close to completion after the Saints have managed to reach an agreement worth £6m plus add-ons.

New incoming director Joe Shields is said to have played a key role in persuading Aribo to Saint Mary’s Stadium.

Aribo has been impressive for the Gers over the last few seasons, playing a pivotal role in the Scottish Premiership victory in the 2020/21 season.

The former Charlton Athletic Star garnered wider attention last season after helping the Gers reach the finals of the Europa League, where they lost to Eintracht Frankfurt on penalties.

A central midfielder with attacking instincts by trade, the Nigerian international was deployed in various positions further up the field by Van Bronckhorst last season to greater effect.

Having already secured the transfers of Gavin Bazunu, Mateusz Lis and Armel Bella-Kotchap, the Saints are now preparing a four-year deal for Aribo.

Furthermore, Southampton have also completed the transfer of Manchester City youngster Romeo Lavia on a £12m deal, per a report from Fabrizio Romano.

Lavia is said to have passed his medicals successfully, with an official announcement imminent.

The Saints are also monitoring Chelsea defender Levi Colwill alongside a host of Premier League clubs.