Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo has officially completed a deadline-day loan move to Leicester City from Southampton, the two English clubs confirmed on the final day of the winter transfer window. The deal brings the Nigerian international to the King Power Stadium for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, as Leicester look to bolster their midfield options amid a crucial phase of the campaign.
Aribo’s switch comes after a period of speculation linking him with a January exit from Southampton, where he had found regular opportunities harder to come by following the club’s relegation to the Championship last season. Leicester City, currently pushing for promotion back to the Premier League under manager Enzo Maresca, moved swiftly to secure the 28-year-old’s services before the 11pm transfer deadline.
“I’m very happy to be here,” Aribo said upon completing the move. “Leicester City is a club with huge ambitions, and I’m ready to give everything to help the team achieve its goals. I want to contribute with energy, experience and passion. I’ve always loved a challenge, and this is a big one.”
The ex-Rangers and Southampton playmaker brings valuable top-flight experience to Leicester’s midfield, combining box-to-box dynamism with creativity and tactical discipline. His arrival adds another dimension to Maresca’s squad as the Foxes aim to maintain a strong promotion push and stabilize their league position.
Leicester’s sporting director welcomed Aribo’s arrival, highlighting the midfielder’s versatility and leadership qualities. “Joe is a player we have admired for some time,” he said. “He brings Premier League and international experience, and his work rate, technical ability and character will be a great asset to us as we fight for our objectives this season.”
Aribo has also been a regular presence for the Super Eagles, earning plaudits for his tenacity and intelligence in midfield for Nigeria. His international pedigree was seen as a key factor in Leicester’s pursuit, with the club prioritising players capable of adapting quickly and contributing immediately.
Southampton’s head of football acknowledged Aribo’s professionalism and wished him well in his next chapter. “Joe has been a respected member of our squad, and we thank him for his efforts,” the club statement read. “We wish him all the best at Leicester City for the remainder of the season.”
Leicester fans greeted the news with excitement on social media, hopeful that Aribo’s addition will inject fresh impetus into the side’s midfield. Supporters have noted his energy, passing range and ability to influence all phases of play as qualities that could be crucial during the club’s demanding schedule.
