Spurs complete signing of midfielder Taarabt

Tottenham have completed the signing of Lens midfielder Adel Taarabt, who has been on loan with the Premier League club since January.

Taarabt, who has represented France at U-16, U-17 and U-18 levels, impressed for Spurs reserves and was rewarded with a place in the first team squad.

Sporting director Damien Comolli told his club's official website, www.tottenhamhotspur.com: "I didn't expect Adel to break into the first team group so early.

"We told him the first six months were for him to settle down and then we would take it from there.

"After just a short time he came on against West Ham and changed the game before getting another chance at Chelsea.

"We were a little bit surprised it happened so quickly for him, but we also know his talent is unbelievable.

"Physically he has become a lot stronger and fitter since joining and he needs to remain on that path. We are very happy he will be committing his future to us in making this move permanent."