After an impressive run in Europe last season which saw them reach the final of European competition, Rangers fans would have perhaps been consigned to some of their best young talents at Ibrox attracting interest from abroad.

What's the word?

One man who caught the eye last season was Joe Aribo and sides across the border are understandably keen on signing the Rangers forward after his performances in Giovanni van Bronckhorst's side.

The former Charlton man has been tipped to reunite with Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa and while rumours have been quiet in recent weeks, Dean Jones suggests that the Villans could still return for Aribo later in the window.

In an interview with GIVEMESPORT, he said: “I think Aribo will become an option a bit later in the window from what I’m told.

“I think he had ideas of going somewhere else that have fallen through, and now they’re going to look at further options, and I know that Villa is just one of those that need to be explored. So that might happen but further down the line.”

Supporters will be gutted

Since joining on a free transfer from Charlton in 2019, Aribo has established himself as a key player at Ibrox.

The 25-year-old has gone on to make 148 appearances for the Gers, contributing 26 goals and 25 assists in that time, while last season was certainly his best in a Rangers shirt.

Aribo would feature 57 times in all competitions for van Bronckhorst's side, contributing nine goals and ten assists, which emphasises just how much the Dutch manager relied on the midfield maestro last season.

He also showed his versatility in the Europa League final, featuring up front and scoring the opening goal, so it is clear that he is a very-highly valued player at Ibrox.

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However, with his contract set to expire at the end of next season, it would not be a surprise to see him sold this summer.

Given just how important he has been for Rangers in recent seasons, supporters will surely be gutted to hear that an Aston Villa approach is on the cards.

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