Tottenham remain optimistic of completing a deal for Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White, despite Nuno Espirito Santo's side now adopting a 'not for sale' stance, and the situation is becoming more complex by the day.
Forest are threatening both Spurs and the player's agent with legal action following what they believe was an 'illegal approach' for their playmaker (Rob Dorsett), with the dispute surrounding a 'breach in confidentiality' after the Lilywhites triggered his £60 million release clause.
"Even though it is relatively commonplace for clubs to sound out their would-be transfer targets in advance, 'tapping up' (or any meaningful negotiation) is banned under the Premier League rules," wrote Dorsett, who originally broke this story, in an article for Sky.
"Rule T.3 in the Premier League handbook says a buying club must get written permission from the selling club before approaching any player, or they face disciplinary action.
"Forest have a contractual agreement for the terms of Gibbs-White's contract - and specifically the level of his release clause - to be kept confidential, so if that has been breached, they have a legal case."
Gibbs-White was scheduled to have a medical at Hotspur Way on Friday after a round of quick-fire talks, and the 25-year-old looked nailed on to become Tottenham's fourth signing of the summer after Mathys Tel, Kota Takai and Mohammed Kudus.
There is an expectation from some that Tottenham will eventually sign Gibbs-White regardless and Forest may eventually have to stand aside. However, the transfer now looks set to be dragged out as a result of Forest's legal claim.
Taking into account the rules which Thomas Frank's side are alleged to have broken, talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook has explained what could happen if Spurs are found guilty, or if the Premier League do indeed to choose to investigate.
The punishments Tottenham face if found guilty of 'illegal' Gibbs-White approach
Crook shared that Tottenham could face two potential punishments over the 'illegal' Gibbs-White approach.
It is believed that Spurs may face a fine or even a transfer ban if it is discovered that they've violated the rules, but top flight chiefs are yet to decide if they will even investigate Forest's pleas.
In the meantime, Gibbs-White has returned to Forest training, holding 'showdown talks' with the club as their ongoing battle with Tottenham continues. Crook reiterates that there is still hope an agreement will be reached, so the former Wolves star's switch to N17 is by no means off the table.
Gibbs-White was a key player under Nuno last season, bagging seven goals and 10 assists in the Premier League alone during Forest's chase for a Champions League spot, which they agonisingly fell short of on the final day.