Latest developments
- Manchester City are interested in Morgan Gibbs-White.
- City are searching for Kevin De Bruyne's replacement.
- Florian Wirtz also features on City's shortlist of targets.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): City following Gibbs-White
Manchester City will consider England and Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White to replace Kevin De Bruyne, who will depart the Etihad as a free agent this summer.
The story comes from The Athletic, who claim City are also interested in Bayer Leverkusen ace Florian Wirtz.
Value (3/5): Price tag unclear
The Champions League-chasing side are not keen on losing their star players and have accordingly not slapped any price tag on Gibbs-White, who is valued at north of £40million by Transfermarkt. The 25-year-old is contracted to Forest until 2027.
Suitability (4/5): Ball-carrier
The England international is known for his attacking approach in possession, having impressed with this ability to carry the ball with speed and intent. His ball-striking and vision is equally impressive and has seen him register five goals and nine assists in 27 Premier League appearances so far this term.
Upgrade? (4/5): Like-for-like replacement
City are yet to decide whether they will sign a like-for-like successor to De Bruyne or strengthen elsewhere to compensate for his attacking presence. In Gibbs-White, City would be signing a player who is very similar to the Belgian when it comes to progressing the ball from the middle of the park and finding his teammates in the final third with through balls.
Logic (4/5): Big shoes to fill
The Forest star is enjoying a brilliant campaign under Nuno Santo but he will naturally be tempted to move to City and take the challenge of replacing the club legend under Pep Guardiola's tutelage.
Whisper+ verdict: 18.5/25
Gibbs-White makes a lot of sense for City but it's best to wait for the club to make a final decision on their targets before getting too excited.
