Morgan Gibbs-White has returned to Nottingham Forest’s starting XI this afternoon as they face AS Monaco in a pre-season friendly – a move that could reveal Tottenham Hotspur’s next steps in their £60 million chase.
The Premier League outfit are in action against the French side at Chesterfield’s SMH Group Stadium, following a goalless draw with Chesterfield FC last weekend. Gibbs-White, who missed that previous encounter, is now back in the fold, sparking fresh speculation over his future.
Spurs Still Circling Despite Legal Threats
Tottenham Hotspur’s interest in the 25-year-old has intensified in recent weeks, with the club aiming to reinforce their squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. However, the transfer saga has taken a tense turn.
Nottingham Forest recently issued a formal complaint to both Spurs and the player’s representatives, raising legal concerns over what they allege was an unlawful approach and breach of confidentiality in Gibbs-White’s contract.
Despite the friction, the Spurs are said to remain confident. The North London club previously tabled a £60 million bid for the attacking midfielder — a figure widely reported as the amount required to activate a release clause. Forest, however, rejected the offer.
Player Keen to Settle Matter Before Portugal Camp
Gibbs-White, who resumed training with Forest at the start of the week, is believed to be pushing for clarity before the team flies out to Portugal for their next training camp.
Rumours had swirled that a medical was scheduled at Spurs last Friday, although no official move has materialised since.
Forest are set to play in the Europa League next season, having secured the spot following Crystal Palace’s drop into the Conference League. Yet the squad has already been weakened with Anthony Elanga’s departure to Newcastle United.
Thomas Frank Remains Tight-Lipped
Speaking ahead of Tottenham’s pre-season fixture against Reading, manager Thomas Frank was tight-lipped when quizzed about the transfer situation.
“You know me well so I will use what I’ve always said and that is that I won’t speak about players from outside the club,” said Frank during the press conference.
The manager’s comments echo his recent approach to transfer dealings, as seen when he discussed Tottenham’s wider recruitment challenges.
As Spurs attempt to navigate multiple high-stakes deals simultaneously, Frank has already spoken publicly about the club’s aggressive transfer strategy, including during Tottenham’s £100m transfer standoff with key decisions looming, a situation that sheds light on the broader picture surrounding Gibbs-White’s pursuit.
Kudus Arrival Signals Intent
Tottenham have already bolstered their attacking arsenal with the £55 million signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United.
“Great signing from the club. Top work from Daniel [Levy] and [Spurs technical director] Johan [Lange], getting a very good player in. He will give us some of that unpredictability in the game. His finishing is very good and he is almost at the perfect age to perform and to hit the next level,” added Frank, praising the move.
Spurs’ business isn’t slowing down. With Gibbs-White still a top priority, the North Londoners could be preparing for a blockbuster summer.
