Tottenham have been handed a huge blow after their summer transfer target Morgan Gibbs-White signed a new three-year contract at Nottingham Forest.
The 25-year-old was expected to make a £60m move to Spurs earlier this month after they apparently triggered a release clause. However, Forest reacted furiously to the news and threatened legal action over an alleged illegal approach for the player.
Forest were also preparing a complaint to the Premier League, arguing that Spurs’ conduct surrounding the proposed transfer had been inappropriate. The two-time European champions consulted lawyers because they believed Spurs did not have permission to speak with Gibbs-White and also felt there had been a breach in confidentiality regarding the release clause in the England man’s contract.
Gibbs-White scored seven goals and added eight assists in 34 league games last season to help Forest finish seventh and qualify for Europe. He had been linked with Spurs and Manchester City. However, late on Saturday night, the midfielder signed a new deal with Forest which keeps 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.”
