Joe Aribo could be on the verge of a fresh start in Spain, with La Liga outfit Villarreal keen to secure the Nigerian midfielder’s signature before the close of the summer transfer window, Footynaija.com reports.
The Southampton playmaker, who has just a year left on his contract, is attracting growing interest from Europe, and Villarreal have now emerged as serious contenders, according to AfricaFoot.
The Spanish side are reportedly prepared to table a €12 million offer, upping the ante after previous reports linked Bundesliga giants RB Leipzig with a €10 million bid earlier this summer.
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Discussions are believed to be advancing, with a four-year deal worth around €3.5 million per season being mooted. Villarreal are said to have already opened talks with Southampton, who are weighing up whether to cash in on the 28-year-old now or risk losing him for free next year.
Aribo, who joined the Saints from Rangers in 2022, has endured a mixed spell at St Mary’s but remains a valuable asset. The 1.83m tall midfielder previously impressed during Rangers’ run to the 2022 Europa League final and has amassed 34 caps for Nigeria, scoring twice.
Will Still on Aribo: “There’s been interest around Joe. I’ve just tried to give him a bit of headspace, a bit of breathing space to do the right things. We’ll just see how that develops over the next few days, a few weeks.” #saintsfc @rees_julian pic.twitter.com/U18u1KWIeL
— SaintsExtra (@SaintsExtra) August 3, 2025
Valued at €6 million by Transfermarkt, Aribo’s versatility and attacking flair are believed to be key factors behind Villarreal’s pursuit, with the Spanish side looking to bolster their midfield options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Only two Nigerians have ever played for Villarreal: Ilechukwu Uche and Samuel Chukwueze. Aribo could be the third should the deal be formalised.
Joe Aribo is currently under contract with Southampton.
