Spurs beat Chelsea to signing

[COYG]

Tottenham have signed French midfielder Adel Taarabt on loan from Lens, subject to international clearance.

The 17-year-old has represented France through the age groups and can play as an attacking midfielder, a second striker or on either flank.

Spurs Sporting Director Damien Comolli said: "Adel is recognised as one of the best talents in Europe for his age."

Tottenham have been tracking Taarabt through the season and beat off competition from Chelsea and Arsenal.

"He will be a healthy addition to the squad and is a continuation of our policy of attracting the best young talent as we constantly seek to improve the quality of the team both now and for the future," added Comolli.

"We're especially pleased that we beat several leading Premiership clubs to his signature."

It is a long-term loan deal, but Spurs are not disclosing details of the move or whether it will become permanent.

However, in December the teenager claimed Tottenham had signed him on a five-year contract.

"I have signed with the London club for a period of five years," Taarabt told the Lens website.

"To be more precise, it is a three-year contract, with an option for two more years.

"Other than Tottenham, there were also Arsenal and Chelsea.

"But I opted for Spurs because of their plans for me. They effectively offered to quickly integrate me into the first team to offer me maximum playing time.

"Arsenal and Chelsea, as with Lens, suggested that I spent time in the youth team and the reserves."

Taarabt made his debut for Lens earlier in the season but has played just two minutes of first-team football this term.