Rafael van der Vaart moved to Tottenham just days after talking up Manchester United.

The Real Madrid midfielder's £8million move was ratified yesterday after technical problems held up the deal before Tuesday's deadline.

Van der Vaart had said: "I could never play for another club in Spain.

"If you are leaving Real Madrid, there is only one club you can join that is not a step down - and that's Manchester United."

But yesterday Van der Vaart, 27, seemed delighted with his switch.

He said: "I want to play again and if possible every week, with a beautiful club. I'm totally happy.

"The fact Tottenham were playing in the Champions League influenced my decision a great deal although I know I have to earn my place in the team because they have a number of sensational players. I'm proud of this transfer."

Boss Harry Redknapp said: "The fee came crashing down because the deadline was so close. He's a great passer of the ball, a top footballer and will be a big plus for us."