Crystal Palace are keeping a close eye on Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo as Patrick Vieira eyes further reinforcements in the middle of the park.
According to Football Insider, Crystal Palace are closely monitoring the development of Joe Aribo. The midfielder from Rangers has attracted a lot of attention due to his performances in Scotland and he could emerge as a potential January target for the Premier League club.
Aribo is a central midfielder by trade, who had joined Rangers in 2019. During his ongoing two and a half year spell at the club, the former Charlton Athletic youngster has notched up over 100 competitive appearances for the Scottish giants, impressing the onlookers with his creativity going forward.
Although a midfielder, Aribo usually prefers to play in a number ten role. His six goals and four assists were vital in helping Rangers land the Scottish Premiership title last season. And it appears the Englishman has maintained his good form in the new season, having been involved in three goals in eight matches so far.
Aribo’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with Crystal Palace monitoring his development closely at Rangers. The Eagles have endured a topsy-turvy start to the new season, leaving Patrick Vieira frustrated. The Frenchman, as a result, is lobbying for more midfield reinforcements, with Aribo a potential candidate.
It appears the former Arsenal superstar is keen on adding a reliable midfield partner for Conor Gallagher, as James McArthur simply hasn’t provided the quality required while new signing Will Hughes is yet to even make his debut for his new club due to an injury, earlier in the campaign.
Joe Aribo fits the bill perfectly, in Palace’s pursuit of a new midfielder. The 25-year-old has enjoyed a lot of success at Rangers, showcasing his credentials, especially when it comes to creating chances in the final third.
It could be extremely useful for Palace, alongside the more composed Luka Milivojevic and the energetic Gallagher, ultimately adding another dimension to the club’s midfield unit.
A native of London, Aribo’s current contract at Rangers doesn’t expire until 2023. But it won’t be surprising to see the midfielder taking the next step in his career sooner rather than later, and a return to his hometown could be a logical choice for both parties involved.
