Gibbs-White signs deal to stay at Nottingham Forest as Tottenham Hotspur are left red-faced in the aftermath.
Morgan Gibbs-White, Tottenham’s summer transfer target, signed a new three-year contract with Nottingham Forest, dealing the team a serious blow.
It was anticipated that the 25-year-old will sign a £60 million contract with Spurs earlier this month after they reportedly activated a release clause. The news, however, infuriated Forest, who threatened legal action for allegedly approaching the player illegally.
Additionally, Forest had written a protest to the Premier League, claiming that Spurs’ actions regarding the potential deal were improper. The two-time European winners sought legal advice because they felt Spurs lacked authorisation to talk with Gibbs-White and that the release clause in the England player’s contract had been breached.
Last season, Gibbs-White helped Forest finish seventh and earn a spot in Europe by scoring seven goals and dishing out eight assists in 34 league games. Manchester City and Spurs had been mentioned in connection with him. However, it was revealed late Saturday night that the midfield player had agreed to a new contract with Forest, keeping him at the City Ground until 2028.
The Forest owner, Evangelos Marinakis, said: “Morgan is a special player – not just in terms of talent, but character and mentality. He represents what we want this football club to be: he is a winner, talented, ambitious, fearless and proud.
“There was significant interest from various clubs, but we were determined to build our future with Morgan at the heart of it. I promised our fans we would not only compete, but grow stronger and stronger every season. Today is another big step in that journey.”
Speaking after signing his new deal, Gibbs-White told the club’s official website: “I’ve felt at home at Forest from the moment I arrived. The support from the fans, my teammates and everyone around the club has been unbelievable. I believe in what we’re building here – and with the backing of Mr Marinakis and the enormous ambition he has, I want to be part of making something special. I’m excited for what’s to come.”