The Premier League have today confirmed that Tottenham successfully signed Dutch International midfielder Rafael van der Vaart from Real Madrid before the close of the transfer window. The player cost Spurs in the region of £8m on a four year deal.

The statement on Spurs’ website read “We are delighted to announce that we have reached agreement with Real Madrid for the transfer of Rafael van der Vaart.”

Spurs moved quickly after van der Vaart’s proposed move to Bayern Munich fell through.

It’s a move that’s likely to anger rival fans with the dubious nature of the delayed confirmation from the Premier League.