What looked like a straightforward transfer to Tottenham has ended in a dramatic U-turn, with Morgan Gibbs-White choosing to remain at Nottingham Forest on a record new deal.
The twist not only stunned Spurs but also sparked plenty of behind-the-scenes tension.
Spurs Believed Deal Was Done
Tottenham were convinced they had triggered Gibbs-White’s release clause when they lodged a £60 million bid on July 10.
A medical was even scheduled, suggesting the England midfielder’s move to North London was all but complete.
But things quickly turned sour. Nottingham Forest accused Spurs of making an “illegal” approach, claiming a confidentiality agreement in the clause had been breached.
That threat to report the deal to the Premier League effectively stopped the transfer in its tracks.
A Record-Breaking Contract at Forest
Although Gibbs-White had shown strong interest in joining Spurs, the 24-year-old ultimately chose loyalty to Forest.
He has now signed a fresh three-year contract that the club has described as a “record deal.”
Reports suggest the agreement more than doubles his previous £60,000-a-week salary, underlining Forest’s determination to keep him.
Gibbs-White Phones Frank to Apologise
According to The Athletic, Gibbs-White personally called Tottenham boss Thomas Frank to apologise for how the saga unfolded.
Frank, however, reassured him that no apology was needed, even if Spurs were clearly disappointed to miss out on one of their top targets.
Owner’s Intervention Seals the Deal
Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis played a crucial role in convincing Gibbs-White to stay.
He flew to the team’s training camp in the Algarve to hold direct talks, promising not only a lucrative contract but also significant investment into the club’s squad, stadium, and facilities.
Heavy Summer Spending at Forest
That commitment has already been backed up with action.
Forest have invested heavily this summer, signing Dan Ndoye from Bologna for £34 million and bringing in Brazilian duo Igor Jesus and Jair Cunha from Botafogo in a combined £27 million deal.
According to Daily Mail Sport, Forest’s total outlay is set to surpass £90 million, with the club pushing for Ipswich Town’s Omari Hutchinson in a £37.5m deal, Rennes forward Arnaud Kalimuendo for £26m, and Manchester City’s James McAtee in a £30m package.
Tottenham Left to Regroup
For Spurs, missing out on Gibbs-White is a major setback, especially after landing Mohammed Kudus earlier in the window to boost creativity.
The blow is even heavier with James Maddison ruled out for most of the season due to an ACL injury.
Frank now faces the challenge of reshaping his midfield plans without one of his key summer targets.
