Corinthians midfielder Paulinho has confirmed he is on the brink of joining Tottenham and claimed the ambition the club has shown by keeping hold of Gareth Bale and Andre Villas-Boas played a major factor in his decision.

Bale has been heavily linked with a big-money move to long-time admirers Real Madrid, while manager Villas-Boas was wanted at free-spending PSG. However, the Portuguese tactician recently played down all speculation and insisted that neither he nor the Welsh international would be leaving the club this summer.

Spurs are understood to have matched Paulinho's £17m release clause. The Brazil international, who scored the later winner in Wednesday's Confederations Cup semi final against Uruguay, has described his imminent move to White Hart Lane as a dream.

"To play in England for a great team like Tottenham is a dream. What I respect about Tottenham is the ambition they have shown. This summer there has been interest in their coach and their best player - and they have been clear they both are not going anywhere," Paulinho said.

Paulinho
Reuters

"When my agent made me aware that Tottenham were interested, I knew it would not be a move that I could turn down. It is important for the team and the Brazilian fans that at the moment all my focus is on winning the Confederations Cup, but, after the tournament is finished, I hope it is a deal that can get finalised quickly," the 24-year-old added.

Meanwhile, new Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has refused to talk about the club's potential summer signings.

The Spanish giants have been strongly linked to Bale and want-away Liverpool forward Luis Suarez. However, the Italian manager, who took charge at the Bernabeu on Tuesday, was not willing to discuss any names.

"We've not spoken of signings because today is the first day I am here. I cannot give any information on the players who might come in or those who will leave. The squad is very good. In the next few days we will talk with the club about what we need," Ancelotti stressed.

Madrid have, however, confirmed the signing of Spain U21 star Isco, a Manchester City target, for a reported £23m.

Real Madrid