Deal 80% Done: Spurs Move Sparks Chaos for Everton’s Top Transfer Target

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Tottenham’s Move for Gibbs-White Could Complicate Everton’s McAtee Pursuit

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White could have major ramifications for Everton, who are themselves targeting a creative midfielder this summer.

According to Telegraph reporter John Percy, Spurs are prepared to trigger the Nottingham Forest midfielder’s £60 million release clause, with negotiations between the two clubs said to be progressing swiftly.

“Tottenham are ready to trigger a £60m release clause to sign Forest and England midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White. Talks accelerating between the two clubs,” Percy posted on X.

While the potential move strengthens Tottenham’s midfield options, it also sends Forest into the market for a replacement — and that’s where Everton’s concern begins.

The Merseyside club have been in talks to sign Manchester City’s James McAtee, with Pep Guardiola reportedly ready to sanction his exit for a fee in the region of £25 million. David Moyes is keen to bring in more creativity this window, and McAtee is believed to be a top priority for the new Everton boss.

However, with Gibbs-White on the verge of departing, Forest have identified McAtee as a natural successor and are expected to rival Everton for his signature.

“Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace are among the Premier League clubs considering Manchester City’s James McAtee this summer,” Sky Sports News reported on Thursday.

The situation leaves Everton in a potentially precarious position. Forest, who qualified for European football last season, can offer McAtee something Everton currently cannot: continental competition.

Though Everton’s lack of European football could prove a stumbling block, they are not without an attractive pitch. The Friedkin Group’s recent takeover has injected a fresh sense of ambition into the club, highlighted by the arrival of Thierno Barry from Villarreal. The move demonstrates a clear strategy to rebuild and compete more aggressively under Moyes.

Additionally, the Toffees’ imminent switch to a brand-new 52,000-seat stadium on the Mersey waterfront may also appeal to potential signings, presenting a long-term project with significant upside.

There’s also a sentimental pull at play: McAtee is the great nephew of Alan Ball — a World Cup winner and bona fide Everton legend. That family tie could be a deciding factor if the player is torn between the two offers.

While Everton are still firmly in the race, the coming weeks will be critical. With Forest lurking and Crystal Palace also monitoring the situation, Everton’s recruitment team may need to act quickly and decisively to secure McAtee’s signature before the market shifts any further.

The outcome of Tottenham’s move for Gibbs-White may end up shaping much more than just their own midfield. For Everton, it could determine the success or failure of one of their most important transfer priorities this summer.