Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly moving fast to land Xavi Simons following summer transfer setback in pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White.

Tottenham Hotspur have been left surprised, though not bitter, after Morgan Gibbs-White opted to extend his stay at Nottingham Forest, despite holding strong interest in a move to North London. The creative midfielder had initially been keen on the switch to Thomas Frank’s side, with Spurs even triggering his release clause earlier this month.

However, Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis took matters into his own hands, personally stepping in to convince the Englishman to remain at the City Ground. His persistence paid off as Gibbs-White signed a new contract until 2028, dealing a frustrating blow to Tottenham’s summer plans.

Sources close to the club have revealed that Spurs fully respect Gibbs-White’s decision despite being caught off guard. The club’s confidence in completing the deal never wavered until the announcement, and that only heightens the sting of missing out on a long-targeted playmaker.

Thomas Frank and Johan Lange are already exploring alternatives

In true Tottenham fashion, they are choosing not to dwell on the disappointment. According to TBR Football, sporting director Johan Lange and manager Thomas Frank are ready to pivot quickly, with multiple creative midfielders already on their radar.

Among the names under discussion are Xavi Simons, the versatile Dutchman from RB Leipzig who contributed to 19 goals last season, and James McAtee of Manchester City. Spurs have reportedly held preliminary talks for both players in recent weeks, with Simons seen as a particularly exciting option. His flair, directness, and intelligence in the final third could offer the spark Tottenham so clearly lacked in their recent pre-season outings.

The need for reinforcements was glaringly obvious after uninspiring draws against Wycombe Wanderers and Luton Town, where Spurs created only three clear-cut chances across both games. The absence of James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski due to injuries has exposed a creativity gap that must be addressed before the new season kicks off.

Levy must act swiftly

There is no denying that missing out on Gibbs-White stings. But for Spurs, the task now is to respond swiftly and smartly. The talent is out there. Xavi Simons, if secured, could not only fill the Gibbs-White void but potentially exceed expectations. Likewise, McAtee brings Premier League and European experience at just 22 and could flourish under Frank’s system.

The message from this episode is clear: Tottenham must be decisive. With the transfer window rapidly closing and rivals continuing to strengthen, there is no time for prolonged negotiations or missed opportunities.

The Gibbs-White saga is another reminder that in modern football, ambition without execution counts for little. While Daniel Levy’s restraint and principles have long defined Spurs’ business model, the landscape has shifted. If Tottenham want to compete at the top table, they need to act like it. Securing someone like Xavi Simons would not only address a tactical gap but send a statement of intentx.