Arsenal and Man United Battle for Morgan Gibbs-White After 25-Goal Season

Gibbs-White Attracts Interest from Premier League Giants

Arsenal and Manchester United have expressed interest in signing Nottingham Forest attacking midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White this summer, according to CaughtOffside. The 2025-26 campaign proved an outstanding one for the 25-year-old, who registered 25 goal involvements across all competitions.

Gibbs-White, valued at around £60 million, has become a key figure at the City Ground since joining from Wolves. His creative output and versatility in attacking midfield have caught the eye of several top clubs, with the Gunners and the Red Devils now locked in a potential transfer battle.

Statistical Context and Form

Gibbs-White’s 25 goal involvements last season included 12 goals and 13 assists in 38 appearances. He finished as Forest’s top scorer and chief creator, playing a vital role in their mid-table finish. His underlying numbers — successful dribbles, chances created and passes into the box — rank him among the league’s most productive midfielders.

The midfielder’s form has been consistent across two full seasons at Forest, with his output improving year on year. In the previous campaign, he managed 16 goal contributions, showing a clear upward trajectory.

Tactical Fit at Arsenal and Manchester United

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta seeks an attacking midfielder capable of breaking down low blocks and supplying chances for Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka. Gibbs-White’s close control, vision and willingness to shoot from distance align with Arteta’s system. At Manchester United, Erik ten Hag requires creativity from central areas, especially with Christian Eriksen approaching 34. Gibbs-White could operate as a number ten or wide attacker, offering flexibility.

Both clubs have prioritised a midfielder who can contribute goals and assists. Gibbs-White’s profile matches that need more closely than many other targets in the market.

Transfer Market and Fee Context

Nottingham Forest are under no pressure to sell. The midfielder signed a long-term contract in 2023, and the club values him at £60 million — a figure that would make him one of the most expensive English midfielders in history. Comparisons to recent deals for players like James Maddison (£40m) and Mason Mount (£55m) suggest the price is in line with the current market for homegrown attacking talent.

Both Arsenal and Manchester United are likely to test Forest’s resolve with bids, but a significant outlay would be required. The fee could rise with add-ons depending on performance and future success.

Fantasy Premier League Implications

Gibbs-White’s potential move to a top club would boost his FPL appeal. Currently owned by 8% of managers, a transfer to Arsenal or United could see his price rise from £6.5m to around £8m. His goal and assist output would be enhanced by stronger teammates and a more attack-minded system. FPL managers should monitor pre-season fixtures and any confirmation of a switch.

Impact on Title Race and Relegation Battle

For Arsenal, signing Gibbs-White would deepen their squad as they seek to challenge Manchester City for the title. The Gunners finished second last season and require more creative depth to maintain a title challenge across all competitions. Manchester United, meanwhile, need to close the gap on the top three; adding a consistent goalscoring midfielder could be the difference in securing Champions League football.

For Nottingham Forest, losing Gibbs-White would be a significant blow. He was their standout performer and key to their survival hopes. Without a suitable replacement, they could face a tougher relegation battle next season.

What’s Next for the Transfer Saga

Both Arsenal and Manchester United are expected to formalise their interest with official bids in the coming weeks. The player’s preference remains unclear, but the promise of Champions League football at Arsenal may give them an edge. Forest will drive a hard bargain, and any deal is likely to drag into the latter stages of the window. The outcome could shape both clubs’ summer strategies — and their prospects for the 2026-27 campaign.