Tottenham sign South Africa´s Khumalo

Tottenham have signed an agreement with South African international defender Bongani Khumalo which will see the player move to Spurs in the January transfer window, the club announced on Tuesday.

Tottenham said the SuperSport United player had signed a pre-contract agreement which would be confirmed subject to a work permit being approved.

The 23-year-old impressed Spurs boss Harry Redknapp during a trial in September, which took place after Khumalo starred in all three of South Africa’s matches at the World Cup.

“He’s not expensive. We had him over on trial and we like him,” Redknapp said last month. “He’s got potential and we’ve got a tie-up with the club SuperSport so we’ve taken him on.

“It will be a great chance for the kid. He’s a great lad. He comes from a poor background and he’s desperate for a chance and we’re going to give him a chance.”

Khumalo’s arrival should strengthen Redknapp’s defensive options following an injury crisis which has seen central defenders Ledley King, Michael Dawson, William Gallas and Younes Kaboul all spend time on the sidelines this season.

Jonathan Woodgate is also unavailable due to a long-term injury.