Joe Aribo could be on the verge of leaving Southampton, with Turkish Super Lig club Göztepe showing strong interest in signing the Nigerian international ahead of the upcoming season.
The 28-year-old midfielder, who has one year remaining on his current contract, is reportedly open to a move away from St Mary’s following Southampton’s relegation from the Premier League.
Göztepe, based in the city of Izmir, is understood to be actively pursuing the former Rangers star as part of its preparations to bolster the squad for the 2025 Süper Lig campaign.
Aribo, who joined Southampton from Rangers in 2022, played a pivotal role in the Saints’ recent return to the Premier League. During the 2023–24 Championship season, he made 35 appearances, scoring four goals and providing one assist.
His performances were crucial in maintaining midfield stability as the team secured promotion under challenging circumstances.
However, Southampton’s return to the top flight proved short-lived. The club’s relegation this season has triggered a series of internal changes, with several players expected to depart in a squad overhaul aimed at financial realignment and renewed promotion ambitions. Among those likely to exit is Aribo, whose experience and versatility have drawn the attention of foreign clubs.
Göztepe, who are backed by Danish sporting director Rasmus Ankersen, are believed to be taking active steps to secure Aribo’s services. Sources close to the matter suggest that discussions between the two clubs have begun, though a final agreement has yet to be reached.
The Turkish side sees Aribo as a valuable addition to its midfield, bringing both technical ability and international experience to the table.
Despite having a year left on his contract with Southampton, Aribo is reportedly willing to consider a fresh start in Türkiye, particularly if it offers regular playing time and the chance to feature prominently in a competitive league.
Göztepe, keen to assert itself in the Süper Lig next season, views the Nigerian as a key figure in its rebuilding strategy.
Aribo, who has earned numerous caps for Nigeria, made his name in Scotland with Rangers, where he played an instrumental role in their 2020–21 Premiership title win under Steven Gerrard.
His move to Southampton was initially seen as a step up, but fluctuating team fortunes and managerial changes have limited his impact in the Premier League.
While no official statements have been made by either club, negotiations are understood to be progressing, and an update on the potential deal is expected in the coming days.
If finalized, the move would see Aribo become one of the most high-profile signings for Göztepe this summer.
The midfielder’s departure would mark another significant change in Southampton’s squad composition as they prepare for life in the Championship once again.
The club’s management faces the tough task of balancing player departures with strategic acquisitions to build a side capable of mounting a swift return to the top flight.
Aribo’s potential move to Türkiye is being closely monitored by both English and Turkish media, as fans on both sides await confirmation of what could be a notable transfer in the summer window.
