Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White has changed his representation, moving from CAA Stellar to ROOF, a German-based agency that also represents players like Kai Havertz and Virgil van Dijk. The announcement, made via social media by football influencer Fabrizio Romano, has drawn attention across the sport, with such moves often interpreted as a player seeking a transfer. Forest, however, maintains that they have no intention of selling Gibbs-White this summer.
Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis reportedly does not wish to sell another key player after the recent departure of Elliot Anderson to Manchester City for £116 million. The club's plan is to build around Gibbs-White under new coach Oliver Glasner, aiming for improvement rather than mere consolidation. Glasner's arrival is seen as an opportunity to elevate Gibbs-White's game, similar to his work with players at Crystal Palace, but this requires the midfielder's full commitment.
Gibbs-White, who has one year remaining on a contract that makes him the club's highest-paid player, has expressed ambition and was reportedly disappointed to be excluded from England's squad despite scoring 15 Premier League goals last season, guiding Forest away from relegation. Chelsea is said to have shown interest earlier this summer, and Gibbs-White aspires to play at the highest level, which he associates with the Champions League. He was a boyhood fan of Manchester United, and Manchester City had previously considered a move for him.
Despite Forest's desire to keep him, the club faces the challenge of convincing Gibbs-White of their Champions League aspirations, especially after finishing 16th last season, 16 points adrift of the final qualification spot. Glasner's presence and the club's recent training camp in Portugal have reportedly energized Gibbs-White. His future could also be influenced by potential moves of other players. If Bayern Munich's Michael Olise were to leave, Gibbs-White is considered a candidate to replace him, given ROOF's strong ties to the German club.
Other potential destinations include Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal. However, a move to Saudi Arabia might be considered a significant step for a player in the prime of his career with ongoing international ambitions. If Gibbs-White remains at Forest for another year, a move to Manchester United could become a possibility, particularly if Bruno Fernandes were to depart.
Forest signed Gibbs-White for £25 million plus add-ons in 2022, with assurances that he would be supported. He is now central to the club's project, and his next move, whether this summer or in the future, is expected to reflect his status.
