By In a dramatic twist in the 2025 transfer market, Manchester City have surged ahead in the race to sign Nottingham Forest’s dynamic midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White, according to The Times. The Premier League giants are reportedly on the verge of opening formal negotiations to bring the 25-year-old England star to the Etihad Stadium, a move that could reshape their midfield for years to come. With the clock ticking on Kevin De Bruyne’s time at City, Gibbs-White is poised to step into the spotlight as the club’s next creative force.
Gibbs-White: The Heartbeat of Forest’s Resurgence
Morgan Gibbs-White has been nothing short of sensational for Nottingham Forest since his £25 million move from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2022. The attacking midfielder has blossomed into one of the Premier League’s most exciting talents, playing a starring role in Forest’s unexpected push for a top-four finish in the 2024/25 season. With five goals and nine assists in 27 league games, Gibbs-White has proven himself as a creative spark, capable of unlocking defenses with his vision, dribbling, and relentless energy.
His standout moment came in Forest’s stunning 1-0 victory over Manchester City earlier this season, where his inch-perfect, cross-field pass set up the winning goal. Beyond his flair, Gibbs-White’s work rate and ability to press high have made him a cornerstone of Nuno Espirito Santo’s vibrant Forest side. His performances have not only earned him a call-up to the England squad—debuting in September 2024—but also caught the eye of Pep Guardiola, who reportedly sees him as the ideal long-term replacement for De Bruyne.
A Strategic Signing for City’s Future
With Kevin De Bruyne, the architect of City’s golden era, set to depart when his contract expires in June 2025, Manchester City are wasting no time in planning for the future. Gibbs-White, at 25, represents a perfect blend of youth and experience, offering the versatility and dynamism needed to thrive in Guardiola’s high-octane system. Unlike De Bruyne’s metronomic passing, Gibbs-White brings a more direct, energetic style, capable of driving through midfield and creating chances in tight spaces.
City’s interest in Gibbs-White is not without competition. Liverpool, Arsenal, and Tottenham have all been linked with the Forest star, but sources suggest City’s financial muscle and clear pathway to trophies give them the edge. While a transfer fee has yet to be confirmed, Forest are likely to demand upwards of £60 million for their talisman, a price City are reportedly willing to meet to secure his services.
What This Means for Both Clubs
For Manchester City, signing Gibbs-White would signal their intent to evolve while maintaining their dominance. His ability to play as a No. 8 or No. 10, combined with his Premier League pedigree, makes him a low-risk, high-reward addition. For Nottingham Forest, losing Gibbs-White would be a blow, but the potential windfall could fund further squad investment as they aim to cement their status as a top-flight force.
As negotiations loom, the football world waits with bated breath. Will Gibbs-White be the next jewel in Manchester City’s crown, or can Forest hold firm? One thing is certain: this transfer saga is far from over.
