26-year-old will not solve club’s deep-lying midfielder issues and will likely only be a replacement for Bruno Fernandes
Manchester United are exploring the possibility of a move for Nottingham Forest’s attacking midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White in the summer transfer window.
Gibbs-White shone for Forest in the 2024-25 season, helping Nuno Espirito Santo’s team to a Europa League finish which was widely seen as disappointing after they had been in the Champions League places all season.
This season he has produced eight goals and five assists in 37 appearances but Forest’s entire season has been a disappointment, although this is thought to be the result of a general problem with the club rather than individual players like Gibbs-White.
The 26-year-old plays as an attacking midfielder, which means he does not solve United’s deep-lying midfielder issues and will likely only be a replacement for Bruno Fernandes should the Portuguese leave. United supporters might of course feel that Gibbs-White is nowhere near the level of quality to replace their Portuguese maestro.
Last summer, Tottenham tried to sign Gibbs-White, seeking to activate his £60m release clause, but after some conflict between the two clubs the player agreed to a new three-year contract at the City Ground.
One thing that could be a major decider is Forest’s position at the end of the season. They are in major danger of a drop, battling with West Ham and Tottenham to avoid the third relegation spot alongside Burnley and Wolves.
If Forest go down, many of their top players will likely depart, including Gibbs-White. However, United will not be the only team interested in the English midfielder, with local rivals Manchester City also interested.
United are also interested in Gibbs-White’s Forest teammate Elliot Anderson, who they are expected to make an approach for in the summer.
