Nottingham Forest have just made a smart play in bid to stop Morgan Gibbs-White joining Tottenham

Nottingham Forest have made a strategic and timely move in their ongoing battle to retain Morgan Gibbs-White, who has become the subject of serious interest from Tottenham Hotspur.

The tug-of-war between both clubs has intensified in recent weeks, ever since Spurs triggered a reported £60 million release clause in the midfielder’s contract—an action that left Forest furious.

The East Midlands club claimed Tottenham should not have had access to the confidential details of that clause, which they believed was known only within their own camp.

Despite Forest’s frustrations, Tottenham remain unwavering in their pursuit of the 25-year-old, viewing him as a vital piece in their summer rebuild. However, negotiations have hit a delay, with Forest determined to fight tooth and nail to keep their influential playmaker.

In a bold and calculated countermove, Forest have offered Gibbs-White a new contract, designed specifically to eliminate the £60 million release clause and make it more difficult for Spurs—or any other club—to pry him away so easily.

According to Ben Jacobs, Forest have tried for over a year to convince Gibbs-White to extend his stay at City Ground. Previous offers have failed to entice the player, but this latest proposal is more significant, not just in financial terms, but in its intention to wipe out the clause that currently makes him a prime target.

Forest’s hope is that, by offering a fresh contract with improved terms and no release clause, they can shift the dynamic and persuade their captain to reconsider a move away.

This development puts the pressure back on Gibbs-White. While Tottenham’s interest has not wavered, and the player is reportedly eager to make the switch to North London, Forest’s contract offer forces him to publicly declare where his priorities lie.

Is he ready to accept a lucrative new deal and continue leading Forest as they aim to build on recent progress? Or does he follow his ambition and accept a fresh challenge with a club offering European football and greater visibility?

Gibbs-White’s enthusiasm for a move to Tottenham is no secret. Reports suggest he was prepared to undergo a medical with Spurs, which was later cancelled amid the contractual dispute.

If Tottenham and Forest can agree on terms—whether that be through activating the clause or renegotiating a new fee—he remains ready to complete the switch. Until then, the situation hangs in the balance.

From Forest’s perspective, this move is as much about optics as it is about strategy. Even if they eventually lose their captain, offering him a new contract sends a message to the fans, the squad, and future transfer targets: Nottingham Forest will not roll over easily when it comes to their top players. They are willing to invest in keeping talent, to stand their ground, and to protect the club’s interests.

For Gibbs-White, this is a moment of reflection. He must now evaluate the significance of leading a team like Forest, with whom he has built a strong connection, versus the appeal of stepping into a larger spotlight with Tottenham.

The offer from Forest may not change his ultimate decision, but it serves as a meaningful gesture—one that allows the club to exit the saga with dignity, even if they lose the player.

In the end, Forest may be unable to hold on to Gibbs-White, especially if his heart is set on Spurs. However, they’ve played this situation wisely, doing everything possible to retain him while ensuring they’re not seen as passive participants.

Whether he stays or goes, Forest have shown they’re no longer a club that can be easily raided without resistance.