Morgan Gibbs-White transfer news: Nottingham Forest midfielder snubs Tottenham to sign new club-record contract

Morgan Gibbs-White transfer news: Nottingham Forest midfielder snubs Tottenham to sign new club-record contract

 

 

Morgan Gibbs‑White Transfer News: Forest Star Snubs Tottenham to Sign Club‑Record Contract

 

Nottingham Forest have sealed a pivotal moment in their history by securing **Morgan Gibbs‑White** on a **new club‑record contract** running until **summer 2028**. The move ends mounting speculation and effectively rebuffs a high‑profile interest from **Tottenham Hotspur**.

 

### ⚽ The Spurs Approach and Burned Bridges

 

* **Tottenham triggered Gibbs‑White’s £60 million release clause** on **July 10**, believing they were on the verge of landing the England international. A medical had reportedly been booked, preparing for the move.([Punch Newspapers][1], [Sky Sports][2])

* However, Nottingham Forest quickly accused Spurs of an **illegal approach**, alleging that confidential contract details were accessed without permission and that Spurs contacted the player prematurely. The club formally lodged a complaint with the Premier League.([Cartilage Free Captain][3])

 

### 📝 A Statement of Intent from Forest

 

* Forest’s owner **Evangelos Marinakis** described the new deal as a **statement of ambition and loyalty**, emphasizing Gibbs‑White’s character, talent, and leadership. The contract is explicitly believed to include **no release clause**—doubling down on the club’s determination to keep him long‑term.([Sky Sports][4])

* Gibbs‑White himself spoke with conviction:

 

> “I’ve felt at home at Forest from the moment I arrived… I believe in what we are building here.”([FotMob][5])

 

### 📈 Why Staying with Forest Made Sense

 

* Since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in **August 2022** for a club‑record £25 million (rising to £40 million+ via add‑ons), Gibbs‑White has become Forest’s central figure. He has contributed **18 goals and 28 assists** in **118 appearances**, and was instrumental in securing **European football** for Forest for the first time in three decades.([Last Word On Sports][6])

* His **standout 2024–25 season** included **7 goals and 10 assists**, helping Forest earn a top‑seven Premier League finish and a place in UEFA competition.([Punch Newspapers][1])

 

### 🔐 The Aftermath: What This Means for Tottenham

 

* The collapsed move to Spurs is a **major blow to Tottenham’s transfer plans** under new manager Thomas Frank. The London club, having seriously pursued a marquee signing, saw its approach rebuffed, adding tension and uncertainty around their summer strategy.([The Sun][7])

* Marinakis has made clear his **preference for Gibbs‑White to join Manchester City**, citing perceived mismatches in ambition with Spurs. While City had been linked, they ultimately moved for other targets.([talkSPORT][8])

 

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### 🔍 Transfer Saga Summary

 

| Feature | Details |

| ——————– | ——————————————————————————————————– |

| **Financials** | £60 million release clause triggered, then neutralized; new deal does **not** include a release clause |

| **Duration** | Contract through **2028** |

| **Forest’s Message** | A **club-record deal** and bold ambition under owner Evangelos Marinakis |

| **Player’s Voice** | Gibbs-White emphasises his belief in Forest’s project and loyalty to the club |

| **Spurs Impact** | Deal collapse seen as a strategic failure with possible Premier League scrutiny |

| **Future** | Gibbs‑White’s commitment offers stability; Forest embarks on its **first European campaign in 30 years** |

 

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### 🚀 What This Signing Represents

 

This contract isn’t just about retaining a star player—it’s a bold declaration of identity for Nottingham Forest. At 25, Gibbs‑White has matured from promising youngster to **foundational figure**, and this agreement places him at the **heart of Forest’s long-term ambition**. For the player, it’s a choice rooted in **belonging, belief, and boldness**—not just the lure of Champions League competition.

 

Meanwhile, Tottenham’s pursuit of top-tier midfield talent has hit a roadblock, raising urgent questions about their negotiation protocols and execution in the transfer market.

 

With Gibbs‑White now tied down without an exit clause, Forest have not only safeguarded an elite asset but also laid the groundwork for sustained growth—on the pitch and overseas. It’s a transfer story grounded in strategy, conviction, and loyalty.