In a dramatic turn of events that has sent ripples through the Premier League, Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White has decisively ended Tottenham Hotspur’s hopes of signing him this summer by committing his future to the City Ground with a new three-year contract. The saga, which unfolded over the past few weeks, has been marked by legal threats, intense negotiations, and a remarkable intervention by Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, who has emerged as the architect of this significant victory against one of England’s top clubs.
Earlier in July 2025, Tottenham appeared to have triggered the £60 million release clause in Gibbs-White’s contract, a move that initially suggested the England international’s switch to north London was all but sealed. Spurs had even scheduled a medical for the 25-year-old midfielder, signaling their confidence in wrapping up the deal swiftly. However, Nottingham Forest reacted furiously, lodging a formal legal complaint and accusing Tottenham of an illegal approach that breached confidentiality agreements. The club's stance was clear: Spurs had not followed the proper protocols, and Forest was prepared to pursue legal action if necessary.
Evangelos Marinakis, Forest’s owner, did not hold back when addressing the situation. Speaking during the announcement of Gibbs-White’s contract extension, he stated, “As long as I’m in charge of all of these actions, approaches should take place, I repeat, in an appropriate manner. I would never let anyone from any other team get a player from us or make something we don’t agree with.” His words underscored the club’s determination to protect its assets and maintain control over its future.
Marinakis praised Gibbs-White not only for his footballing talent but also for his character and mentality, saying, “Morgan is a special player – not just in terms of talent, but character and mentality. He represents everything we want this football club to be: he is a winner, talented, ambitious, fearless, and proud.” With significant interest from various clubs, Marinakis emphasized that Forest was resolute in building its future around Gibbs-White, promising fans that the club would “grow stronger and stronger every season.”
The midfielder himself expressed his delight at signing the new deal, which keeps him at Nottingham Forest until 2028. “I’m delighted, so thank you to Mr Marinakis, for believing in me,” Gibbs-White said. “I feel like we’ve been on a roller coaster of a journey, but I’ve felt the love instantly from the very first moment I stepped through the doors. 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.”
He added, “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.” Notably, the new contract reportedly contains no release clause, effectively shutting the door on any near-term moves and solidifying Gibbs-White’s role as a cornerstone of Forest’s ambitions.
Behind the scenes, The Sun revealed that Marinakis personally flew to the club’s pre-season training camp in Portugal to meet with Gibbs-White. The Greek billionaire delivered a passionate speech about the player’s importance to the club and his vision for Nottingham Forest’s future. This face-to-face intervention is said to have been pivotal in convincing Gibbs-White to snub Tottenham’s advances and recommit to Forest. The midfielder was reportedly impressed by Marinakis’ enthusiasm and the ambitious plans laid out for the club’s growth.
The legal wrangling surrounding the release clause activation added another layer of complexity. Forest believed Tottenham had not fully met the exact terms of the clause, which can often be intricate and multifaceted. The club sent letters to Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy and Gibbs-White’s agent, warning of potential legal action and even considering an official complaint to the Premier League. This hardline approach by Forest’s management was a clear message that they would not be easily outmaneuvered in the transfer market.
Throughout the transfer saga, Gibbs-White maintained professionalism and focus, continuing to train normally and participate fully with his teammates. Despite the uncertainty, there were no reports of strike action or transfer requests, a contrast to how some players have reacted in similar situations. Gibbs-White even showed his affection for the Forest fans during a recent 0-0 draw with Monaco by making a heart gesture towards the stands, a moment that was later featured in the club’s contract announcement.
On the pitch, Gibbs-White has been a key figure in Forest’s recent rise. Since arriving from Wolves three years ago for an initial £25 million, he has developed into an England international under Thomas Tuchel and played a crucial role in Forest’s qualification for European competition last season. His stats speak volumes: seven goals and 11 assists in the previous campaign, helping the team finish seventh in the Premier League—an impressive achievement for a club outside the traditional “Big Six.”
Nottingham Forest’s determination to retain Gibbs-White comes amid other squad changes, including the departure of Anthony Elanga to Newcastle for £55 million earlier in July. The club is actively pursuing new signings, with Bologna winger Dan Ndoye and Manchester City’s James McAtee among the targets as Forest aims to strengthen its squad for the challenges ahead.
For Tottenham, the failed pursuit of Gibbs-White represents a significant setback. The club spent nearly three weeks chasing the midfielder, only to see the deal collapse amid legal disputes and a dramatic change of heart by the player. Meanwhile, other Spurs targets, such as Xavi Simons, are reportedly close to signing for rival clubs, compounding the frustrations for Thomas Frank and his recruitment team.
Marinakis’s triumph in this transfer saga is more than just retaining a talented player; it is a statement of intent. By keeping Gibbs-White, Nottingham Forest signals its ambition to challenge the established order and compete at the highest levels of English and European football. Marinakis’s words after the signing—“At the end of the day, we always win”—capture the spirit of a club on the rise, ready to take on the giants of the game.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Morgan Gibbs-White and Nottingham Forest to see if this renewed commitment translates into further success on the pitch. With a passionate owner, a dedicated squad, and a clear vision, Forest’s journey promises to be one of the most compelling stories in football for 2025 and beyond.
