Tottenham Deal for Gibbs-White could be ‘Off’, Nottingham Forest Stop Contact
Tottenham Hotspur’s £60 Million Move for Morgan Gibbs-White Collapses Amid Tapping-Up Allegations from Nottingham Forest
What initially seemed like a major coup for Tottenham Hotspur has dramatically unraveled, as their high-profile move for Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White has reportedly fallen apart. The £60 million transfer, once on the verge of completion, is now in serious jeopardy amid allegations of an “illegal” approach by Spurs, according to multiple reports.
On Thursday afternoon, speculation intensified surrounding Tottenham’s interest in the England international. Momentum built rapidly, and by the evening, it was widely reported that the north London club had triggered the midfielder’s £60 million release clause. This was seen as a huge step forward in finalizing the transfer. Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano even issued his signature “Here We Go!” confirmation, signaling that the deal was virtually sealed.
However, in a stunning twist just hours later, the situation took a dramatic turn.
Forest Accuse Spurs of Breaching Protocols
According to Sky Sports journalist Rob Dorsett, Nottingham Forest have now cut all ties with Tottenham over the proposed transfer. The Midlands club reportedly believe Spurs acted improperly by initiating talks with Gibbs-White or his representatives without first receiving formal permission. As a result, Forest are said to be consulting legal advisors regarding what they consider to be a breach of transfer protocol—commonly referred to as “tapping up.”
Although Tottenham may have triggered the release clause, Forest are pushing back firmly, alleging that the approach was unauthorized. Sources close to the club suggest that while Forest may not be able to block the move entirely—due to the nature of the release clause—they have effectively put the brakes on any immediate progress. The situation has created a legal standoff, and any potential transfer now hangs in the balance.
Gibbs-White’s Rising Stock and Stellar Season
Morgan Gibbs-White has been an instrumental figure for Nottingham Forest since his arrival, developing into one of their most consistent and creative forces. Over the past three Premier League campaigns, the 24-year-old has missed just eight matches, demonstrating both durability and influence.
The 2024/25 season was particularly standout for the former Wolverhampton Wanderers academy graduate. Gibbs-White contributed seven goals and ten assists, playing a crucial role as Forest narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification—securing a place in the Europa Conference League instead. His dynamic midfield performances caught the attention of several top clubs, and his inclusion in England’s national setup further elevated his reputation.
Spurs’ Summer Ambitions Under Thomas Frank
Tottenham, now led by former Brentford manager Thomas Frank, have made midfield reinforcements a top priority this summer. Frank has identified creativity and goal contributions from central areas as critical to elevating Spurs’ game to the next level, especially with Champions League football on the horizon.
Chairman Daniel Levy has already been active in the transfer market, with the club sealing permanent deals for Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso following their successful loan spells. On Thursday, Tottenham also completed the £55 million signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United, a move that added further attacking depth to Frank’s squad.
The potential arrival of Gibbs-White was viewed as a key final piece in Frank’s midfield puzzle. Reports even suggested a medical had been scheduled for Friday, with the deal viewed internally as all but done. But now, all plans have been thrown into disarray.
What’s Next?
At present, the future of this transfer remains uncertain. Tottenham may still attempt to salvage the deal or challenge Forest’s claims through the appropriate legal channels. However, the atmosphere between the two clubs has soured significantly, and the situation could drag on depending on the legal advice Forest receive.
This transfer saga serves as a stark reminder of how quickly things can change in football, especially when legal gray areas are involved. For now, Morgan Gibbs-White will remain a Forest player, and Spurs will be forced to either wait, negotiate a truce—or turn their attention elsewhere as they continue their hunt for midfield reinforcement.