Ibrox view: Aribo 2.0 – Rangers must pounce on 21y/o enforcer after big contract update
It emerged on Thursday that Rangers are keen on Bournemouth duo Jack Simpson and Nnamdi Ofoborh, but the latter must be the priority.
There is a lot to like about the promising youngster, and the fact he has already turned down two contract offers means he could be available in the summer.
The club should offer the midfielder a pre-contract deal, before clubs in England get the chance to bag him for free in the summer.
Steven Gerrard talked down the Ofoborh rumour on Friday, but that would be the wrong decision to make, as Rangers have a chance to land the next Joe Aribo.
Like Aribo, Ofoborh would arrive following the expiry of his current contract, and both have excelled in English League One before.
Indeed, Ofoborh helped Wycombe Wanderers to an unlikely promotion last season, just as Aribo did with Charlton the year prior.
Both operate in midfield, too, and share a Nigerian nationality.
The similarities don’t stop there – their playing styles bear the same positive traits, particularly in defence.
Ofoborh played 24 times for Wycombe in 2019/20, making an incredible 6.7 interceptions per game (WyScout).
He also impressed by winning 51% of his duels – the equivalent of 8.2 per 90 minutes – which shows the youngster is a very tough and physically strong opponent to come up against.
The 21-year-old clearly excels at breaking up play, and despite his role picked up just three yellow cards last term, averaging just over one foul a game.
This should appeal to Gerrard, as it appears he has a composed head on young shoulders.
Likewise, Aribo has demonstrated such attributes in his short career – his quick adjustment to life at the Ibrox suggests as much.
So far this campaign the 24-year-old has managed 3.4 interceptions per match, and 1.6 tackles (WhoScored), so there is a likeness to Ofoborh.
However, Aribo’s attacking instinct also means they should work well together.
Ofoborh is a little lacking in that area but Gerrard is capable of improving that weakness, and this video (0:11) below shows there is plenty to work with.
Ofoborh impressed Cherries coach Shaun Cooper when Bournemouth beat Crystal Palace this season, with the midfielder featuring in a back three on that occasion.
Wycombe boss Ainsworth also spoke highly of the midfielder, saying, “He’s a very strong and powerful midfielder who suits our style, and can also cover in the centre of defence which could be valuable for us.”
That versatility makes him perfect for Rangers, too.
In other Rangers news, Alex McCleish has reacted to a boost ahead of the weekend match.