As signs of Morgan Gibbs-White (25, Nottingham Forest) potentially not moving to Tottenham Hotspur emerge, alternative candidates are being mentioned, including names considered successors to Son Heung-min.
British media 'TBR Football' reported on the 13th (Korea time) that 'with Gibbs-White's transfer now uncertain, Tottenham Hotspur has looked at three possible alternatives worth pursuing.'
Recently, Tottenham has officially signed Mohamed Kudus and reportedly activated Gibbs-White's buyout clause (around £60 million). However, his club, Nottingham Forest, has put the brakes on this transfer, raising questions about how Tottenham learned about the clause.
According to reports, while the player remains hopeful for a move to Tottenham, three scenarios for the club to consider have been proposed.
Xavi Simons – Long-term successor to Son Heung-min
The first name mentioned is Xavi Simons (22, RB Leipzig), who represents the Netherlands. TBR Football stated, 'Simons could be the perfect long-term replacement for Son Heung-min, so if Gibbs-White's transfer falls through, Tottenham must express interest.'
Simons is considered a versatile player who can fill both the left winger and attacking midfielder (number 10 role) positions, making him an ideal asset under head coach Thomas Frank's system. Last season, he recorded 11 goals and 8 assists across all competitions, continuing his growth.
Currently, Simons wants to leave Leipzig, which failed to qualify for European competitions, and the German club is also open to selling.
Morgan Rogers – Strong versatile resource... The feasibility of acquisition is 'questionable'
The second candidate is forward Morgan Rogers (23) from Aston Villa. His ability to play all over the attack, including both wings and as a central striker, means he is considered a fitting alternative to Gibbs-White.
Rogers blossomed last season, scoring 14 goals and providing 15 assists in 54 matches. However, the transfer fee set by his current team Villa exceeds £100 million (about 186.1 billion won), so contrary to TBR Football's claims, the realistic possibility of acquiring him seems low.
Nevertheless, the media noted, 'Tottenham might explore his situation as a long-term investment.'
The last candidate mentioned is Eberechi Eze (27), the ace of Crystal Palace. TBR Football reported, 'Head coach Frank highly values Eze, and should Gibbs-White's transfer not materialize, it is likely he will come back onto Tottenham's radar.'
Eze spectacularly scored a free-kick goal against Tottenham in 2023, after which Son Heung-min personally praised the moment.
Tottenham has shown long-standing interest in Eze since his time at Queens Park Rangers. However, Arsenal is also expressing interest in acquiring Eze, so competition between North London rivals could become inevitable.
Last season, Eze had a career-best season, scoring 14 goals and providing 11 assists.
Tottenham still has not given up hope for Gibbs-White's signing, but TBR Football advised that 'active consideration of these three players is necessary in case the situation falls through.'
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