Report: Journalist outlines Spurs plan to trigger clause for Forest star | OneFootball

Report: Tottenham’s Pursuit Leaves Forest Facing Critical Gibbs-White Decision

Morgan Gibbs-White may have been back in a Nottingham Forest shirt on Saturday, but his future remains in limbo. As reported by The Athletic, the midfielder received a rapturous welcome from fans during Forest’s 0-0 pre-season draw with Monaco, playing 45 minutes and engaging with supporters after full-time. Still, the chants and applause may not be enough to convince him to stay at the City Ground.

Ten days have passed since Tottenham Hotspur matched the £60 million release clause in Gibbs-White’s contract, and while Forest were reportedly angered by the timing and nature of Spurs’ bid, the London club’s interest has not waned. Forest, despite feeling aggrieved, must now confront the reality that a defining member of their recent resurgence could depart with little room for negotiation.

Whether Saturday’s pre-season appearance was a farewell or just another step in his preparation for the campaign remains to be seen. His contract, signed in 2022 following a big-money move from Wolves, still has two years to run, but without an extension agreed, Forest’s hand is weakening.

Photo: IMAGO

Tottenham’s bid triggers deeper questions

Forest’s frustration stems not only from the bid matching the clause but from what it symbolises — a lack of control over one of their most valuable assets. While confidentiality was expected around the release clause, Spurs’ move to schedule a medical and initiate terms ahead of Forest’s legal review suggests confidence from the London club that they can land their man.

Forest’s current project under Nuno Espirito Santo is ambitious. After a seventh-place finish and impending European football for the first time in three decades, the desire is to build, not break apart. Losing Gibbs-White now, weeks before the season starts, threatens to unravel some of the momentum.

Still, his presence in training and the dressing room has not stirred unrest. Ola Aina confirmed as much, saying: “We have a bit of banter about stuff like that! But it’s that person’s business… He’s a terrific player, and his football speaks for itself.” Such quotes reaffirm Gibbs-White’s standing within the group.

Performances still match reputation

Despite swirling speculation, Gibbs-White’s cameo against Monaco reinforced why he is so sought-after. In Forest’s typical 4-2-3-1 setup, he operated in the No 10 role, producing neat link-ups and one particular lofted pass to Chris Wood that hinted at his vision and creativity.

Though he missed one chance after cutting inside, opting to shoot rather than square, the moments he produced on the ball served as a reminder of what Forest risk losing. His ability to receive in tight areas, glide past players and progress attacks is a rare commodity.

Physically and mentally, he appeared undistracted. His effort, including aerial duels with Eric Dier, underlined professionalism, even if his immediate future is uncertain. That professionalism extends to behind the scenes, with no reported issues with head coach Nuno or the club’s leadership team.

Photo IMAGO

Long-term impact of contract structure

The inclusion of a release clause now appears to be a misstep from Forest’s perspective. The absence of a new deal and the unwillingness or inability to renegotiate terms earlier have left the club exposed. Comparisons with Wolves and Matheus Cunha are apt — they managed to secure a lucrative sale by renewing terms first, ensuring value was protected.

Forest’s current stance is undoubtedly one of resistance, but they are constrained by legal obligations. Unless Gibbs-White is persuaded to remain or Spurs withdraw, his exit could be imminent. In this context, the Monaco game, despite being a friendly, carried symbolic weight. His reception from fans — loud, warm, and forgiving — may not be replicated once an exit becomes official.

He is expected to travel to Portugal for a pre-season camp with the rest of the squad, but by the time Forest next take to the pitch, they may already be preparing for life without him.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Tottenham point of view, this is exactly the type of move that signals ambition. Spurs are not just shopping for squad depth — they are targeting proven Premier League performers in their prime, and Gibbs-White fits that description perfectly.

At 25, he has grown into a mature attacking midfielder with a strong tactical understanding and creative intelligence. He is capable of playing as a 10, out wide, or even deeper in build-up phases, making him a valuable tool for any manager, especially in a side that aims to play more expansive, fluid football.

The £60 million fee may appear high, but given the inflated market and his proven track record in the league, it could end up looking like smart business. There is also a sense that Spurs are learning from past mistakes — identifying targets early, meeting clauses decisively and acting before rivals.

Fans may rightly be excited at the prospect of Gibbs-White linking up with James Maddison, providing attacking thrust and flexibility. It would also reflect a shift in Tottenham’s transfer strategy towards signing players who can contribute immediately and elevate the team’s technical level.

Forest fans won’t like it, but if the clause exists, and the player is tempted, Spurs are simply executing well-timed strategy. From a north London lens, this deal would mark intent, clarity and a commitment to returning to Champions League-level football.