Manchester United are eyeing a move for Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White should Bruno Fernandes decide to leave this summer, according to talkSPORT.
The Red Devils are planning a major midfield overhaul during the upcoming transfer window as they look to strengthen ahead of what they hope will be a Champions League campaign, while they must also replace the outgoing Casemiro and potentially Manuel Ugarte too.
But captain Fernandes will also be entering the final 12 months of his contract at Old Trafford, and it has been reported that he is 'seriously considering' a move away from the club at the end of this season, leaving the recruitment staff scouring for potential replacements.
Man Utd Eyeing Gibbs-White if Fernandes Leaves
Morgan Gibbs-White in action for Nottingham Forest against Porto in the UEFA Europa League
Gibbs-White, who has been described as 'unplayable', signed a new three-year contract with Nottingham Forest last summer worth around £150,000-a-week after undergoing a medical with Tottenham, when they triggered his £60m release clause.
But Evangelos Marinakis worked around the clock to convince him to stay, eventually getting him to turn down a move to north London. However, Forest have struggled this season and currently sit just four points above the relegation zone, which has sparked more speculation around his future.
It's understood that the England international has a new release clause in his contract, although the value is unclear, and it's well known that the playmaker wants to play Champions League football in his career.
With question marks over Fernandes' future at Old Trafford, and Forest's Premier League status beyond this season, it has now emerged that the 26-year-old has emerged as a target should the Portugal international move on.
Gibbs-White is also still on the shortlist at Spurs, while Man City have also been linked, but it's unclear how likely a deal is to materialise at this stage.
Could Gibbs-White Replace Bruno?
Morgan Gibbs-White
Morgan Gibbs-White
Replacing Fernandes will arguably be the most difficult job at Man Utd this summer if he moved on, and many fans and pundits will be anticipating a big name to come in for big money.
But Gibbs-White is a player who has proven that he is ready to step up to the next level in his career, is Premier League-proven, and is versatile to play across midfield which could help too.
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT if Gibbs-White would be an adequate replacement for Bruno if he did arrive, and this was its response:
Morgan Gibbs-White offers ball-carrying, pressing, and creativity; suits a more dynamic, transitional style.
Less consistent output and elite chance creation than Bruno Fernandes.
Better off-ball work rate and defensive contribution.
Wouldn’t fully replace Bruno’s leadership or end product.
Adequate stylistic shift, not a like-for-like upgrade.
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