Malbranque makes Tottenham switch

Fulham's Steed Malbranque celebrates after scoring against Wigan Athletic during a Premiership match in April 2006. Tottenham have signed the French midfielder from Fulham for an undisclosed fee.

Tottenham have signed French midfielder Steed Malbranque from Fulham for an undisclosed fee.

As part of the deal, Tottenham have sent winger Wayne Routledge to Fulham on a year's loan.

Malbranque had been desperate to leave Fulham after falling out with manager Chris Coleman over his refusal to sign a new contract.

Coleman had banished the former Lyon star to the reserves after he turned down the chance to join West Ham, Bolton and Middlesbrough during pre-season.

It was reported that Malbranque's wage demands were too high for many clubs but Tottenham have managed to strike a deal with the 26-year-old, even though he will be out of action for ten weeks as he recovers from a groin injury.

Tottenham boss Martin Jol told the club's website: "Steed is a skilful, versatile midfielder of real quality.

"He is a player we have always admired and we are delighted he has come to us as there were a number of other clubs interested."

Routledge, 21, has failed to make an impact at White Hart Lane since arriving from Crystal Palace in 2005.

The England Under-21 player will hope to revitalise his career at Craven Cottage and he told Fulham's website: "Obviously it was a blow for me to get injured as soon as I joined Spurs and its been frustrating since regaining fitness to not be able to break back into the team.

"This is a great opportunity to get back into first team football and especially as it is with a club whose footballing style I have always liked."