Joleon Lescott said that he was surprised Morgan Gibbs-White left Wolves, but understands the club making ‘a business decision’.
The 22-year-old departed last week, signing for Nottingham Forest following a lengthy pursuit by the newly promoted club.
Forest have paid Wolves an initial £25 million for Gibbs-White. It has been reported that, with add-ons, the deal could potentially reach up to £42.5 million.
The move happened despite Wanderers having wanted to keep Gibbs-White.
The youngster enjoyed a brilliant season in 2021/22 on loan at Sheffield United.
Bruno Lage was a big fan of his and had wanted to call on him this season. He started him in the first two games.
But ultimately, the offer from Forest was too good to turn down.
Reacting to the decision ahead of Wolves’ 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, former Molineux defender Lescott said on BT Sport: “I was surprised. Having worked with him, he’s one of the most intelligent players how he’s able to affect the game in so many different areas. I was genuinely surprised by that.
“In regards to the decision, I’ve seen reports of it being a business decision. It’s surprising, I think if he plays for Wolves in the Premier League, then his value is higher. I’m surprised they let him go, but I understand that from a business perspective.”
Glenn Hoddle then said it was a good deal for Wolves as he doesn’t see Gibbs-White becoming a £65 million or £70 million player in the future.
Joe Cole, however, suggested he could become worth much more than what Forest have paid.
Wolves can’t be blamed for sanctioning Gibbs-White sale
It is a shame that Gibbs-White has left the club.
It would have been really interesting to see how he would get on if he got regular minutes for Wanderers. And it was looking likely that that would happen, with Lage starting him in the first two games.
But Wolves ruled with their heads, and in the end it’s not surprising the club sanctioned his exit.
The finances were simply too good to turn down.
Gibbs-White could well go on to become a top Premier League player.
But the deal made complete sense for Wolves at the time.