Van der Vaart joins Spurs

Tottenham have confirmed the signing of Dutch midfielder Rafael van der Vaart from Real Madrid for 11 million Euros (AU$15million).

The English Premier League had raised questions about the timing of the transfer, which was instigated just two hours before the deadline on Tuesday.

But after consulting with Real, who confirmed the sale was finalised on time, league officials cleared the way for the 27-year-old's move to White Hart Lane.

Van der Vaart began his career with Ajax, where he scored 51 goals in 103 games before moving to Bundesliga side Hamburg.

After three seasons in Germany he clinched a big-money move to Real Madrid in August 2008.

The Dutchman, who played an integral part in the Netherlands' march towards the 2010 World Cup final, has signed a four-year deal with Spurs.

"Four years at Spurs, for 11 million Euros, I can hardly believe it myself," van der Vaart told De Telegraaf.

"The interest from Tottenham came very quick and I did not have much time to think. But I want to play football again and if possible every week, with a beautiful club. I'm totally happy."

"I am excited about playing in England. Whether it suits my style remains to be seen, but I think a good footballer can adapt and I am very proud of this transfer."