Former Newcastle United youngster completes surprise move to Premier League rivals

Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Fraser Forster has penned a two-year-deal with Tottenham Hotspur

The 34-year-old started his career on Tyneside but failed to make a first-team appearance with Tim Krul, who broke through at the same time, preferred.

Hexham-born Forster enjoyed loan spells at Stockport County, Bristol Rovers, Norwich City and Celtic before joining the Scottish giants permanently in 2012.

Two years later, the 6ft7 shotstopper returned to the Premier League with Southampton, where he made 161 appearances in total.

Forster, who has been capped by England six times, officially joins Spurs on July 1 when his contract at St Mary’s expires, ending his eight-year association with the South Coast club.

He’ll now rival Hugo Lloris for the No.1 jersey at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

“I’m absolutely delighted,” Fraser told Spurs’ club website. “This is a fantastic opportunity for me. When a team like this comes along, it’s impossible to say no. I couldn’t get here fast enough to get it done.

“Everything about the place is world-class. The stadium is probably the best I’ve ever been to - ask any player in the Premier League, and that’s what they’ll say. The training ground is unbelievable, to be able to come here and work, and work hard... I’m very privileged. It’s an opportunity I’m very grateful for.

“It will be a fantastic season, fantastic to have Champions League football, obviously, important to have got that, and now having achieved that, I’m sure the club will want to go as far as they can in the competition. I’ve played almost 50 European games, so if I can come in and help in any way possible, that’s what I’ll be looking to do.”