Twitter was alive with speculation that All Whites; Ryan Nelsen has transferred from Blackburn Rovers to Tottenham Hotspur, and now 3 News Sports can confirm he has reached an agreement with the club.
Lyle Yorks, Nelsen's Washington-based agent, confirmed the move today.
"We settled with Blackburn and have reached agreement with Spurs," Yorks told the Washington Post. "We're just awaiting clearance. It's for six months, with a one-year option. It all unfolded quickly."
The Daily Mail reported that Nelsen's contract with Rovers had been cancelled, which made him a free agent and able to sign with Spurs.
"Harry Redknapp has always been a big fan of Ryan. When the opportunity came up, it really played itself out today before the transfer deadline hit," says Yorks.
The Kiwi defender was one of many last minute transfer speculations before the closing of the January transfer window, with rumours flying left and right as English Premier league teams did their last minute shopping. Although it appears that because Nelsen is a free agent his transfer can take due course rather than within the window's deadline. It's likely the move will be officially announced overnight, NZ time.
Spurs’ manager Harry Redknapp held a press conference prior to the news breaking.
Before the unofficial Twitter confirmations came through, Redknapp made strong comment that he was chasing the 34-year-old.
"We just need to see whether I can take another central defender because I've got William Gallas out long-term through injury," he said.
"I'm hoping to sign Ryan Nelsen on a free until the end of the season. I think he's a great competitor and a good sort to have at your club.
Always liked him."
Redknapp is likely looking to be suring up for the remainder of the season, with the smart word that Spurs have also signed Louis Saha - meaning Redknapp would have acquired an experienced striker and defender.
The move looked even more likely after Spurs loaned central defender Sebastien Bassong to Wolves opening up a spot in the defence for Nelsen.
Nelsen had been at Blackburn Rovers since the 2005 season having played 172 games for the Lancashire based club. He has played one game for the club this season, sidelined with a knee injury. The Club currently sits within the Premier League relegation zone.
3 News
source: newshub archive
