Tottenham today confirmed they had reached agreement to sign Russian striker Roman Pavlyuchenko from Spartak Moscow — a move which could pave the way for Dimitar Berbatov to leave Spurs for Manchester United.

Pavlyuchenko arrived in England yesterday as the deal moved nearer to completion, but he will not be present as Spurs take on Chelsea tomorrow. He will instead link up with Russia for their opening World Cup qualifiers.

The fee paid by Tottenham has not been disclosed but it is understood to be around €18 million.

Meanwhile, the president of Real Zaragoza, Agapito Iglesias, is reported to be in London to discuss the possible transfer of Diego Milito and Sergio Garcia from the Spanish club to Spurs.