Morgan Gibbs-White: The 'Complex' Transfer Saga That Slipped Through Tottenham's Fingers

Tottenham Hotspur allegedly failed to properly activate a complex release clause in Morgan Gibbs-White's Nottingham Forest contract, resulting in a dramatic sequence of events that culminated in a contract extension for the midfielder.

Earlier this month, media reports suggested Spurs had activated Gibbs-White's £60 million ($80.6 million) release clause, but this was immediately met with outrage from Forest, who contemplated reporting Spurs for what they perceived as an "unlawful approach".

The drama concluded on Saturday with a contract renewal for Gibbs-White, proudly announced by owner Evangelos Marinakis, and The Telegraph have now provided detailed insight into how events unfolded for Spurs.

Key to the matter is the details of Gibbs-White's previous release clause, which was not as straightforward as a single figure. Rather, it was an intricate mechanism and, while Spurs are believed to have matched the clause's value, they failed to satisfy "a number of conditions" which meant the clause was never triggered.

Forest were, consequently, never obligated to accept the offer and accused Spurs of an unlawful approach for Gibbs-White, even suggesting there had been a confidentiality breach through the disclosure of a release clause which was not previously public information.

Marinakis became personally involved, feeling he had been disrespected by Spurs counterpart Daniel Levy regarding the manner of the approach. "We always win," the Forest owner stated after announcing Gibbs-White's extension.

The fresh contract is not believed to contain a release clause or an arrangement regarding a future transfer for Gibbs-White, who is understood to have conducted himself professionally throughout the saga.

While they no longer require a replacement for Gibbs-White, Forest are still anticipated to pursue a move for Manchester City's James McAtee.

Tottenham, conversely, will return to the drawing board. Thomas Frank's side have been linked with interest in Real Madrid's talented forward Rodrygo, who is now believed to be available for a reduced fee given the club's readiness to sell.