Due to Leicester’s lack of midfielders, it’s no surprise that they have finally entered the transfer market. The ever-reliable double pivot of Oliver Skipp and Jordan James has been absent for the past two games, and has led to back-to-back home defeats. In addition to this, Boubakary Soumare has also left the East Midlands for Qatar, which has further depleted the Foxes’ options. As a result, they are left with a frustrated Harry Winks, a 17-year-old Louis Page, and Hamza Choudhury. Therefore, it’s easy to see why a new recruit is crucial.
Championship Midfielder Set For East Midlands Switch
Joe Aribo To Leicester
As per the club, Joe Aribo’s move to Leicester is official. The Nigeria-intrnational has made just seven appearances for the Saints this season, none of which came in the starting eleven. Prior to this, he played 32 times in the Premier League last season with three goals along the way. The 29-year-old boasts relatively strong experience with stints also coming for Rangers and Charlton Athletic. His final season in Glasgow was perhaps his best yet, with eighteen goal contributions and seventeen appearances in the Europa League as his side reached the final.
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Aribo’s switch from the South to the East Midlands is temporary, as Leicester can only secure loan deals. This is likely due to their complications with PSR and lack of investment from the top. This isn’t a new restriction for a City boss, as Marti Cifuentes was left with Jordan James, Aaron Ramsey, and Julian Carrazna all arriving on deadline day for the rest of the season. Likewise, Ruud Van Nistelrooy was only able to add Woyo Coulibaly in last year’s winter transfer window.
Is Joe Aribo The Right Fit for Leicester?
In terms of positives, adding new faces to a squad devoid of confidence is always a good thing. Without James and Skipp, Leicester struggles at both ends of the pitch. James has found the net on nine occasions already this season and has proved to be an excellent talisman. Meanwhile, Skipp keeps it ticking and always works hard in the midfield battle. By adding a player with Arbio’s pedigree it increases competition for places and will hopefully give City a boost as they continue to slide down the table.
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On the other hand, it isn’t the most ambitious move, and it’s hard to say it’s a real improvement on what they already have. Aribo hasn’t started a single game for a struggling Southampton side, so it’s tough to see why her woudl then be sufficient enough for the Foxes. In addition, it may also stifle the development of Louis Page, who has recently impressed when given a chance.
Overall, it’s a deal that heavily depends on finances. Aribo has high wages, which if City decide to pay a high amount of then the deal may not be good in the long-term. However, it does give the next manager more options and will provide more depth if any injuries occur. Interestingly, Russel Martin, who is linked with the City job, coached Aribo just a few years ago in the second tier. The Saint won promotion via play-offs that season, with Aribo standing out in a 5-0 win against Swansea. Following the game, Martin said: “He’s been amazing.” Aribo opened the scoring that day, and Martin even credited his characteristics around the training ground. He said: “But he’s been a brilliant teammate, an amazing character as you know. He’s humble, works hard, smiling.
Featured image courtesy of IMAGO / Sports Press
