Spurs wait on Van der Vaart deal

By John Sinnott

Van der Vaart helped Netherlands reach the World Cup final

The Premier League is looking at Tottenham's deadline-day £8m transfer for Real Madrid midfielder Rafael Van der Vaart, BBC Sport understands.

Spurs moved for the 27-year-old Dutch international only two hours before the transfer window closed at 1800 BST.

But the Premier League is examining the circumstances around the switch and a decision is expected on Wednesday.

Spurs boss Harry Redknapp claimed Van der Vaart had been set to join Bayern Munich for £18m but the deal collapsed.

"He's a great passer of the ball, he's a top footballer, he will join in here and be a big plus," said Redknapp, who is hopeful the deal will be approved by the Premier League.

Van der Vaart helped Netherlands reach this summer's World Cup final, which Spain won 1-0, but has struggled to establish himself at Real since signing from Hamburg two years ago.

606: DEBATE Have your say on Van der Vaart's signing

"It was a last-minute job. When I came in this morning it wasn't something I was looking to do," said Redknapp.

"I think he was going to Bayern Munich on Monday for £18m and suddenly he became much cheaper.

"They let me know around 1600 BST that he was available for £8m and, for that money, he is a top player who will definitely improve us. The fee has come crashing down because the deadline is so close."

Redknapp also confirmed he had made an enquiry about Liverpool winger Ryan Babel but "never came close" to landing him.

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