David Ornstein: Contract talks underway as Forest look to fend off Premier League rivals | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest in Talks to Tie Down Gibbs-White Amid Tottenham Interest

Star Player at the Centre of a Contract Tug-of-War

Nottingham Forest are reportedly in discussions to extend Morgan Gibbs-White’s contract, as revealed by David Ornstein of The Athletic. The 25-year-old attacking midfielder has been the subject of intense transfer speculation this summer, most notably linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur.

Ornstein first broke the news on 10 July that Gibbs-White was set for a medical at Spurs. However, things have since taken a dramatic twist. Forest are said to have considered reporting Tottenham for what they allege was an illegal approach, and the club reportedly voiced concern about how Spurs accessed confidential information — including details of a £60 million release clause in the player’s current deal.

Commitment on Show Despite Uncertainty

Despite the off-pitch drama, Gibbs-White has returned to pre-season duty with Forest. After being granted extended leave due to a private family matter, he joined up with the squad in Portugal and featured in their goalless draw with AS Monaco on 19 July. His presence on the pitch — even in a friendly — speaks volumes about his professionalism amid uncertainty over his future.

Gibbs-White currently has two years remaining on the contract he signed after joining from Wolves in the summer of 2022. During his time at the City Ground, he has become an integral part of the squad, tallying 118 appearances, 18 goals, and 28 assists to date.

Interest from Top Clubs Reflects Rising Stock

Gibbs-White’s performances in the 2024–25 season, where he notched seven goals and 10 assists, were key in helping Forest secure a stunning seventh-place finish under Nuno Espirito Santo. His form didn’t go unnoticed, with Manchester City previously weighing up a move before turning to Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders instead.

Photo: IMAGO

Adding further prestige to his résumé, Gibbs-White made his England senior debut last September under interim manager Lee Carsley and now has four caps to his name.

Why Forest Must Act Swiftly

Forest fans will be eager to see the club reward Gibbs-White with a new deal, not only to fend off further interest but also to acknowledge his rise as a Premier League star. The situation is delicate, however, given the potential for legal proceedings over Tottenham’s alleged conduct.

Forest’s ability to keep their key man may well shape the trajectory of their 2025–26 season. Gibbs-White is no longer just Forest’s talisman — he’s a player drawing the gaze of England’s elite.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From the perspective of a Nottingham Forest supporter, the idea of losing Morgan Gibbs-White — especially in controversial circumstances — is gut-wrenching. He’s not just another player; he’s become the creative heartbeat of the team since arriving from Wolves. Last season’s top-seven finish wasn’t just down to tactics or grit — it was largely driven by Gibbs-White’s flair and vision.

News that Tottenham may have acted improperly won’t sit well with the Forest faithful. The potential legal angle adds a sense of betrayal, especially if it turns out that confidential contract details were somehow accessed. Fans will expect the club to take a firm stand here, not just to protect this deal, but to set a precedent that Forest won’t be bullied by the so-called “big six”.

At the same time, the fact that Gibbs-White has rejoined the squad and featured in pre-season matches is a major positive. It shows commitment. Forest fans will be hoping he sees his future at the City Ground and signs a new deal soon. If the club can secure him long-term, it sends a strong signal: Forest are no longer a selling club — they’re building for Europe.