Aribo poised to leave Southampton and move to Germany as Leipzig enquire about him

SUPER Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo looks set to leave recently-relegated Southampton for German Bundesliga side RB Leipzig ahead of the forthcoming 2025/26 season as talks between his agent and the club have begun.

Aribo, 28, has spent the last three seasons at the Saints on the British south coast but with their latest relegation to the second tier of English football, he looks poised to leave. Leipzig, who compatriot and current African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman used to play for, have emerged as the favourite to sign the box-to-box midfielder.

Last season, Aribo made 35 appearances for Southampton in all competitions but was unable to help the club avoid relegation to the Championship. According to Per Africa Foot, sources close to the player reveal Leipzig intend securing Aribo's services this summer.

Leipzig are said to be exploring midfield reinforcements and view Aribo as a potential fit due to his experience. Lookman previously spent a season on loan at Leipzig from Everton in 2018 and the German side could now turn to another Nigerian talent as they rebuild for the new campaign.

Aribo joined Southampton in July 2022 from Scottish giants Rangers and initially impressed under then-manager Ralph Hasenhüttl. However, inconsistent form and managerial instability contributed to a frustrating spell for both the player and club.

With Southampton set for life in the Championship and Aribo eager to return to top-flight football, a move to Germany could provide a fresh start for the midfielder. More developments are expected in the coming weeks as Leipzig considers whether to table a formal offer.