Arsenal plot move for Gibbs-White as midfield target

Arsenal have reportedly added Nottingham Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White to their shortlist of transfer targets, according to Sunday newspaper reports. The 24-year-old is considered an alternative to Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, whom the Gunners also admire.

Background and context

Gibbs-White joined Nottingham Forest in 2022 from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a reported £25 million plus add-ons. He has since become a key figure in Steve Cooper's side, contributing goals and assists from attacking midfield. Last season, he registered 5 goals and 8 assists in the Premier League, helping Forest secure survival.

Arsenal's interest comes amid Mikel Arteta's desire to strengthen his attacking midfield options. The club currently relies on Martin Odegaard as the primary creative force, but depth behind him is limited. Emile Smith Rowe has struggled with injuries, while Fabio Vieira has yet to fully convince.

Morgan Rogers, 21, has impressed at Aston Villa after joining from Middlesbrough in January. However, Villa are reluctant to sell, making Gibbs-White a more realistic target given Forest's financial pressures after breaching Profit and Sustainability rules.

Impact on Arsenal and the transfer market

Signing Gibbs-White would provide Arsenal with a versatile midfielder capable of playing as a No. 10 or on the wing. His experience in the Premier League would reduce adaptation time, a key consideration for Arteta. The fee could be around £40-50 million, reflecting Gibbs-White's contract until 2027 and Forest's strong bargaining position.

  • Gibbs-White averages 1.8 key passes per game, higher than any Arsenal midfielder except Odegaard.
  • He ranks in the top 10% of Premier League midfielders for dribbles completed and progressive carries.
  • At 24, he fits Arsenal's profile of signing players entering their prime years.

What's next

Arsenal are expected to formalise their interest in the coming weeks, with discussions between clubs likely to intensify after the season ends. Forest's valuation will be crucial, as will the player's willingness to move. Gibbs-White has previously expressed happiness at the City Ground, but a Champions League club could prove tempting.

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