Spurs agree deal for Reid

Liam Mackey

Both players were expected to agree personal terms and have medicals in London in order to finalise the moves before last night’s midnight deadline.

“Both players are understandably ambitious young men and are keen to play in the Premiership as soon as possible,” Forest chief executive Mark Arthur said.

“This represents a great opportunity for both of them and as a club we felt we could not stand in their way.”

Dubliner Reid, aged 22, who was also linked with Southampton, has been a long-term transfer target of Spurs. Fellow former Forest trainee Dawson, 21, burst into the first team in 2002 and trained with England but has suffered several injury and illness problems over the past two seasons.

“Andy Reid is a very good player and the type of player we don’t have in the squad,” said Tottenham sporting director Frank Arnesen last night.

“He can play as a left winger, down the right side or just behind the striker so his arrival complements the squad. He’s a good footballer with a nice left foot and a technical player who can read the game well.”

He added: “Michael Dawson is a great prospect, has captained England Under-21s and outside his obvious playing talents, has a leadership quality in his personality.

“Once again these are young players who will not only add to our squad now but will take us forward in the next couple of years.”

Former European champions Forest, who are stuck in the second division relegation zone, are likely to use the funds to help pay off their debts.

Spurs have been one of the busiest Premiership clubs during the transfer window, capturing Egyptian striker Mido on an 18-month loan from Roma, Dutch forward Mounir El Hamdaoui from Excelsior Rotterdam and Finland midfielder Teemu Tainio on a pre-contract deal.