Joe Aribo’s current situation is ‘a concern’ for Rangers amid increasing uncertainty over the midfielder’s long-term future, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 25-year-old has been widely tipped to depart Ibrox in the summer after entering the final 18 months of his contract with the Glasgow giants.

What is the latest news involving Aribo?

Aribo joined the reigning Scottish champions from Charlton Athletic for just £300,000 back in 2019 and has developed into a crucial cog with some dominant displays since then.

The Nigeria international has registered 45 goal contributions in 128 appearances for Rangers across all competitions, playing a pivotal part in their first top-flight title success in 10 years last term.

However, Aribo’s impressive performances have reportedly caught the eye of a handful of Premier League clubs keen to secure themselves a bargain deal.

According to The Sun, Crystal Palace are lining up a £10 million move for the box-to-box dynamo after identifying him as the ideal candidate to replace loan star Conor Gallagher.

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A previous report in the Daily Mail claimed that Brentford and Watford were also interested in snapping up Aribo’s services, while Southampton are believed to have scouted the 6 foot ace.

Rangers manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst addressed the rumours circulating about Aribo and Ryan Kent recently, disclosing that talks over new deals will begin in the ‘near future’.

What has O’Rourke said about Aribo?

It’s set to be a big summer for Rangers, with several experienced stars set to become free agents following the conclusion of 2021/22 and many top talents linked with moves south of the border.

And despite Van Bronckhorst’s announcement that negotiations with Aribo are imminent, O’Rourke still believes the engine room operator’s situation is alarming.

He told GiveMeSport: “Yeah, it's a concern for Rangers. Aribo, 2023 I think his contract is up, and he’s still yet to agree a new deal.”

Would Aribo be a big loss to Rangers?

Aribo has already racked up six goals and seven assists in 37 outings for Rangers this season, highlighting his importance to Van Bronckhorst’s charges.

The versatile gem’s underlying numbers also highlight his integral nature, with his 1.8 key passes and 1.6 dribbles per league game seeing him rank inside the top three for both metrics when compared to his teammates.

Rangers will surely be hoping then that an agreement can be reached with Aribo to extend his stay at the club, aiding their progression domestically and in Europe.