Glasgow Rangers icon Barry Ferguson says he understands why Southampton are one of the clubs interested in signing Nigeria national teamer Joe Aribo in the summer transfer window.

Allnigeriasoccer.com broke the news three days ago that the Saints have revived their interest in the versatile midfielder but have to fend off competition from Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and Fulham to land his services.

Aribo has entered the last twelve months of his contract at Rangers and has made it clear he is not interested in signing a new deal after preliminary talks were held on a contract extension.

The 25-year-old has grown by leaps and bounds since landing at Rangers in 2019 under the tutelage of Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard and Giovanni van Bronckhorst, helping the Light Blues win the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup and qualify for the final of the Europa League.

Ferguson has labeled Aribo 'a top level player' and admitted that his sale is inevitable provided Rangers asking price for the player is met.

"I can see why they [Southampton] are interested in him," Ferguson said to Go Radio via Glasgow Live.

"He's grown into a top midfielder with some of his performances. He's a top level player and there's been a number of clubs linked.

"That will be a worry for the Rangers fans but money talks. But if that valuation is met and he doesn't want to commit to Rangers, they might need to do business.

"I would like to think they are trying to get him on a longer term contract."

Aribo has yet to resume pre-season training at Rangers as he was granted an extended vacation due to international commitments with the Super Eagles this summer.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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