Tottenham's January chase for Morgan Gibbs-White tests Forest's resolve

Nottingham Forest have made clear they will not part with England international Morgan Gibbs-White in the January transfer window, despite Tottenham Hotspur’s renewed interest in the 26-year-old attacking midfielder. The north London club, managed by Roberto De Zerbi, are preparing a fresh bid for the player.

Past bid and contract saga

Tottenham first moved for Gibbs-White in the summer of 2025, submitting a bid that matched the release‑clause value in his Nottingham Forest contract. Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis threatened legal action, and the midfielder ultimately signed a new three-year deal in July 2025, binding him to the City Ground until the summer of 2028.

The 26-year-old delivered an outstanding season after the collapsed transfer, netting 18 goals and providing seven assists in 53 appearances for Forest. In the current campaign he has already found the net once and added two assists in four matches across all competitions.

Forest have indicated they will not entertain a January departure for Gibbs-White and are preparing a fresh contract extension to reward his form. The club’s resolve was reinforced by the recent loss of Elliot Anderson to Manchester City, which they say has only strengthened their determination to retain the core of the squad.

Tottenham's renewed pursuit

Tottenham Hotspur, managed by Roberto De Zerbi, remain keen on adding the attacking midfielder to their ranks. According to TEAMtalk, the north London club are ready to revisit a bid in 2027, believing Gibbs-White’s ability to create chances and score would fill a creative void in their side.

The Spurs have already spent over £300 million this summer, underscoring their appetite for quality signings. Yet the club acknowledges that a January move would be difficult, as Gibbs-White will have just 18 months left on his current contract when the window opens.

Legal threats from Marinakis in 2025 illustrate the lengths Forest will go to protect their assets, and the club’s intention to hand the midfielder a new deal further complicates any immediate transfer. Consequently, any January offer from Tottenham would have to overcome both contractual and strategic barriers.

For now, Forest appear set to secure another extension for Gibbs-White, while Tottenham are likely to monitor the situation and prepare a fresh approach for the 2027 window.