Whilst Morgan Gibbs-White’s proposed £60m transfer to join Tottenham Hotspur appeared to be heading in the right direction, his move now appears to be in serious doubt.
The Nottingham Forest star had his release clause triggered by Thomas Frank’s side, but Evangelos Marinakis has raised concerns over the Lilywhites’ move for the attacking midfielder.
It’s been reported that the deal is currently off at present, with the Reds considering legal action over a proposed illegal approach between Spurs and the player’s agent.
His release clause was seen as part of a non-disclosure agreement, something which has been broken, with the deal now seemingly up in the air between the parties.
It’s unclear whether Frank’s side will continue to pursue a move for the England international, but many supporters will hope a deal can be completed to allow him to thrive with another player in North London.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Despite moving for Gibbs-White, other deals have been explored, including a move for Brentford talisman Yoane Wissa, who managed to score 19 times in the Premier League last season.
However, it could prove to be another expensive addition, with the Bees demanding £50m to part ways with him despite having just one year left on his current contract.
He’s not the only other player in England’s top flight on their radar, with Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton being closely monitored, according to GB News.
The report claims that Frank’s side are preparing a £60m bid for the 21-year-old as part of the investment that’s been seen so far during the summer window.
It also states that the Eagles could be demanding a fee in the region of £75m for the England international, but the Lilywhites are prepared to spend big to land his signature this summer.
Why Spurs’ £60m target would be perfect alongside Gibbs-White
There is no doubt that Gibbs-White would be a top-level addition for Spurs this window, having the ability to transform the club’s fortunes in attacking areas.
The 25-year-old managed to register seven goals and eight assists in the Premier League last season, helping the Reds secure European football for the first time in three decades.
However, the latest news around his move to North London will undoubtedly delay the process, but given Frank’s admiration, it’s understandable if the hierarchy will wait to complete a deal for his signature.
The £60m release clause that has been mooted for his services would be an excellent price, allowing him to nail his place down as a creative star in behind the striker.
However, he will need defensive reinforcements behind him to allow him to thrive within attacking areas, something which Wharton would undoubtedly offer his compatriot.
The Palace star’s figures from last season showcase why he’d be perfect for Gibbs-White, subsequently being able to break up play and hand him the tools to thrive.
Wharton, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by creator HLTCO, managed to complete 7.3 progressive passes and 5.3 passes into the final third per 90 last season, having the tools to give the ball to Gibbs-White, who can create carnage in attacking areas.
Games played
20
Goals & assists
2
Pass accuracy
76%
Progressive passes
7.3
Key passes
1.8
Passes into final third
5.3
Tackles won
2.3
Interceptions made
1.4
Clearances made
1.8
Recoveries made
6.9
However, out of possession, the youngster was just as impressive, winning 2.3 tackles per 90 and making 1.4 interceptions per 90 – handing Frank the superb ball-winning option he requires at the heart of his side.
He’s also made 6.9 recoveries and 1.8 clearances per 90 in the league throughout 2024/25, highlighting the talent he possesses as a deep-lying option, arguably being the final piece in the Lilywhites’ midfield puzzle.
£60m may be a huge bid for such a young talent, but he’s already showcased his quality early on in his professional career, only getting better in the years ahead.
If he can replicate his talents across the capital in Frank’s side, he will solve such an issue for many years to come, potentially forming a deadly partnership with Gibbs-White if a deal can be resurrected.
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