Spurs stiffen defence with Canadian international

Picture dated April 9 shows Werder Bremen defender Paul Stalteri. The Canadian international became Tottenham Hotspur's third signing for next season when he joined from Bremen.

Canadian international defender Paul Stalteri became Premiership side Tottenham Hotspur's third signing for next season when he joined from German Bundesliga outfit Werder Bremen.

The 27-year-old, who has been capped 50 times, had a successful time with Bremen, after joining them in 1997, climaxing with the domestic double in 2004.

Spurs sporting director Frank Arnesen said Stalteri, who made eight Champions League appearances this season, was doubly useful as he could fill two positions.

"He is a defender who can play in midfield - so he is a multi-functional player who can play on both sides," Arnesen said Monday.

"He has come from a tough environment at Werder Bremen and their players are very well-known for their mentality."

Arnesen said that Stalteri was now a battle hardened player in terms of playing football at the highest level in Europe.

"His biggest success was last year winning the double and he has now had good experience of European football.

"I am delighted to get him in, there were a lot of clubs chasing him, including some from England. He will be a big plus for the squad."

Stalteri said that he had rejected Bremen's offer of a new contract because he wanted a new challenge.

"I am delighted to be moving to London and joining an elite club like Spurs," he said.

"Bremen's offer was a good one.

"My decision wasn't linked to that. I feel simply that the moment has come to take on a new challenge after eight excellent years at Bremen."

Stalteri follows Finnish midfielder Teemu Tainio, who joined from French side Auxerre, and Derby County's Tom Huddlestone, who both signed in January but were to join up in the summer.