Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White this summer has already been one of the sagas of the window, with the Nottingham Forest star at the heart of the controversy.
Nearly two weeks ago now, the Lilywhites triggered the 25-year-old’s release clause within his contract, but that’s where the issue over the currently lies.
His clause was seen as a secret within his contract, leading to Nuno Espírito Santo’s side claiming Thomas Frank’s men made an illegal approach for the midfielder’s signature.
It now appears as though Forest have ceased all negotiations with Spurs, putting the deal in potential doubt, with the player himself expected to join the Reds squad on their pre-season tour.
As a result, other summer targets are now being considered by the hierarchy, as they look to back Frank in his quest for success during his first year at the helm.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Over the last couple of days, Atlético Madrid star Conor Gallagher has been touted as a potential option for Spurs in the midfield department during the current window.
It remains unclear how much a deal for the former Chelsea star would cost this summer, but the hierarchy have wasted no time in pursuing a move after making contact with the LaLiga side over a potential deal.
However, he’s not the only player currently on their radar this window, with Brentford star Yoane Wissa a player firmly in their sights, according to Ben Jacobs.
The journalist claims that the Lilywhites have been in talks with the Bees over a move for the 28-year-old, who registered 19 league goals during the 2024/25 season.
He also states that Newcastle United and Forest are in the race for his signature, but any deal could be an expensive one given his current £50m price tag.
Why Spurs’ £50m target would be a better signing than Gibbs-White
There’s no denying that, given his tally of 15 combined goals and assists in the Premier League last season, that Gibbs-White would be a tremendous addition for Spurs.
However, the current scenario could have repercussions such as a hefty fine or even a transfer embargo should the club be found guilty of their actions.
It’s also unclear what role he would play within Frank’s side, especially considering James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski have mainly operated in such a role in recent times.
A deep-lying option is more of a priority within the midfield department this summer, with a new talisman also needed to provide competition to Dominic Solanke.
The aforementioned scenarios would make Wissa an ideal option for Frank’s side this summer, not to mention he enjoyed his best-ever campaign under his guidance last time around.
When comparing his stats to those of current number nine Solanke, he’s managed to outperform him in key areas, showcasing why he’d be an excellent addition for the Lilywhites.
Wissa, who’s been labelled “remarkable” by journalist Zach Lowy, massively outscored the Englishman, whilst posting a better goal per shot on target rate – showcasing his clinical edge in front of goal.
Games played
35
27
Goals & assists
23
12
Shot on target accuracy
46%
40%
Goals per shot on target
0.6
0.3
Pass accuracy
77%
70%
Key passes made
0.9
0.5
Carries into 18-yard box
1.1
0.5
Aerial success rate
46%
43%
He also managed to complete more of the passes he attempted, whilst also notching more key passes per 90, having the creative ability to allow players around him to thrive in North London.
The DR Congo star’s dominance is further reflected in his aerial success rate, winning more duels and subsequently offering Frank’s side a needed focal point.
£50m may appear to be a hefty fee for the 28-year-old, but given his recent withdrawal from Brentford’s pre-season tour, he could well be available for a cheaper fee.
If he can replicate his form across the capital with the Lilywhites, it would be a phenomenal pickup, landing a player who would certainly have more of an impact than Gibbs-White.
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