David Ornstein: Tottenham identify Forest midfielder as next target | OneFootball

Tottenham Eye Morgan Gibbs-White to Strengthen Midfield Under Thomas Frank

Gibbs-White Emerges as Key Target for Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur’s summer rebuild is gathering momentum, with Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White now in their crosshairs. As reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic, the north London club are intensifying their pursuit of the England international, who is also admired by several top clubs.

Recently appointed Spurs boss Thomas Frank is a long-term admirer of Gibbs-White and views him as a key figure in his vision for a more technically creative midfield. A move to Tottenham would offer the 25-year-old Champions League football – a tempting prospect for a player entering his prime.

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Gibbs-White, who joined Forest from Wolves in August 2022 for a fee of up to £42.5 million, has evolved into one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League. His creativity and leadership have made him a central figure under Nuno Espirito Santo.

Impressive Stats Fuel Premier League Interest

The numbers support Gibbs-White’s growing reputation. Last season, he registered seven goals and 10 assists, helping Forest to a seventh-place finish and a Conference League spot. Over three years, he’s tallied 18 goals and 28 assists in 118 appearances, occasionally captaining the side.

Despite reported interest from Manchester City, who ultimately opted for Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders, Spurs now seem in pole position. The lure of top-tier European football and a clearly defined role under Frank could prove decisive.

Spurs’ Transfer Strategy: Blending Youth with Experience

Tottenham have already been active in the market. They’ve secured Mohammed Kudus from West Ham for £55 million, completed the signing of Japan international Kota Takai, and made permanent the acquisitions of Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso, who impressed during loan spells.

Gibbs-White would add versatility, creativity, and maturity to an evolving midfield. His ability to operate centrally or in wider attacking roles could be pivotal as Spurs juggle domestic and European commitments.

A Statement Signing in the Making?

Spurs’ intent this summer is clear: bolster quality, improve depth, and back their new manager. Bringing in Gibbs-White would represent more than just a tactical fit – it would send a message to rivals about Tottenham’s ambitions under Frank.

“Switching to north London would give him a chance to play Champions League football,” Ornstein notes, highlighting the transformative potential of the move.

At just 25, Gibbs-White has both the experience and upward trajectory to thrive at the highest level. Forest will be reluctant to sell, but if Spurs can strike a deal, this could be one of the standout moves of the window.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Spurs fan’s perspective, the potential signing of Morgan Gibbs-White would tick many boxes. While he might not yet be a household name across Europe, he has quietly become one of the Premier League’s most consistent attacking midfielders.

His creativity, ball-carrying ability, and pressing game are tailor-made for what Thomas Frank likely wants to implement. Unlike other more high-profile signings that risk upsetting the balance, Gibbs-White feels like a footballer with something still to prove – and that hunger is a perfect match for Tottenham’s current project.

There’s also a sense that this is the right player at the right time. Spurs have lacked a reliable creator behind the striker since Christian Eriksen’s departure. Gibbs-White may not be a like-for-like, but his ability to link midfield and attack, and drive forward with the ball, offers a similar solution.

Some supporters may wonder if £50m+ is too much to pay for a player without Champions League experience. But the market dictates value, and with Premier League-proven talent now at a premium, this could prove a wise investment if Spurs are serious about challenging the top three.