Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White, who is a target for Tottenham Hotspur, reported for preseason training at Forest’s facility following complications that have delayed his potential transfer. Gibbs-White was expected to undergo a medical exam on Friday after Tottenham activated the £60 million release clause in his contract. However, complications arose when Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis lodged a formal protest with the Premier League, claiming that Spurs made an unauthorized approach for the player.
Forest alleges that they did not grant permission for Tottenham to discuss Gibbs-White, arguing that the specifics of the release clause were confidential. Although initial reports indicated that Gibbs-White had successfully completed his medical in London, more recent accounts clarify that he did not leave Nottingham as previously thought. He also did not feature in Forest’s recent friendly against Chesterfield—not due to transfer issues, but because he was one of the club’s international players expected to return this week.
As for the future, Spurs remain optimistic that the transfer will eventually materialize, but Forest seems committed to pursuing their complaint regarding Tottenham’s actions. The outcome of this dispute is uncertain, and neither club has issued an official comment on the situation. This ongoing predicament leaves both teams in a state of limbo, with concerns about how it may affect Tottenham’s performance in the upcoming season and whether they might consider other options if the transfer drags on.
The situation illustrates the complexities often involved in football transfers, and it’s a reminder of the importance of adhering to protocols within the sport. Fans will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what it means for both clubs as they prepare for the new season.