Nottingham Forest Attempt to Hijack Tottenham’s Transfer Plans Amid Gibbs-White Controversy
Nottingham Forest are reportedly aiming to deliver a double blow to Tottenham Hotspur during this summer’s transfer window, as they not only try to block the North London club from signing Morgan Gibbs-White but are now actively pursuing one of Spurs’ key midfield targets.
The drama surrounding Gibbs-White has continued to dominate headlines, with Nottingham Forest launching a legal complaint against Tottenham for allegedly making unauthorised contact with the player. Forest believe Spurs acted improperly in their approach, potentially breaching transfer protocol. While Tottenham remain confident that they can eventually get the deal over the line, the legal dispute has thrown uncertainty over the timeline of the transfer.
However, as that saga unfolds, Forest are now shifting their focus to a strategic countermove — by attempting to snap up Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey, a player long admired by Spurs and reportedly high on the wish list of Brentford boss Thomas Frank as well.
Forest Shift Focus to Jacob Ramsey in Attempt to Undermine Tottenham
Jacob Ramsey, the 24-year-old midfielder from Aston Villa, is believed to be available for transfer this summer as Villa look to reshape their squad and raise funds. Tottenham had previously been linked with a move for the dynamic midfielder, who is known for his versatility and attacking instincts. Ramsey’s ability to operate across multiple roles in midfield and the frontline has made him an appealing option for several Premier League clubs.
Nottingham Forest, however, are now emerging as serious contenders for his signature. According to The Telegraph, the Midlands outfit have made Ramsey their top transfer priority in the current window. Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo is said to view Ramsey as an ideal fit for his tactical system — particularly due to his ability to function in multiple attacking positions.
Forest’s interest in Ramsey isn’t new, with reports suggesting the club have monitored him for some time. They are hoping that the lure of European football — which Forest secured after their strong finish last season — could be the decisive factor in swaying the player towards a move to the City Ground.
Where Do Spurs Stand?
Despite earlier reports suggesting Tottenham were keen on bringing Ramsey to North London, The Telegraph’s latest update makes no mention of Spurs being active in the current pursuit. Instead, it names West Ham United and Everton as the other clubs expressing interest in the Aston Villa man.
Former Spurs scout Mick Brown previously stated that Ramsey would “jump at the chance” to play for Tottenham, but with Spurs having recently added attacking depth — including the signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham — it’s possible the club has cooled its interest unless further departures occur.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank, meanwhile, is also thought to be a strong admirer of Ramsey, though the club’s acquisition of Kudus and the presence of other attacking talents could complicate any potential move from the Bees.
Forest Playing the Long Game
Nottingham Forest’s aggressive transfer strategy is seen as part of a broader plan to establish themselves as a competitive force in the Premier League. By not only fighting to retain key players like Gibbs-White but also targeting Premier League-proven talents such as Ramsey, the club is demonstrating serious intent ahead of the new season.
If successful, the Ramsey coup would not only strengthen Forest’s squad but also serve as a symbolic victory in their ongoing tug-of-war with Tottenham — potentially unsettling a major domestic rival both on and off the pitch.
Whether Spurs re-enter the race for Ramsey remains to be seen, but for now, Nottingham Forest appear determined to shape the narrative of this transfer window to their advantage.