Tottenham Hotspur have completed the £8million signing of Newcastle defender Sebastien Bassong. The Frenchman has signed a five year deal at White Hart Lane and the signing fee could increase to £12million depending on appearances and performances. Bassong was one of the very few players who impressed in Newcastle’s squad last season. With Newcastle getting relegated to the Championship, there were a host of Premiership clubs lining up for Bassong’s signature.
Bassong will miss the first two games of Tottenham’s new season after being sent off against Fulham on the last season. Harry Redknapp decided to sign Bassong after realising that most of his frontline defenders – Jonnathan Woodagate and Ledley King would be injured for the start of the season. Redknapp beat arch-rivals Arsenal to Bassong’s signature.
A statement on Tottenham website read: “We are delighted to announce that we have reached agreement with Newcastle United for the transfer of Sebastien Bassong to the club, following the player successfully completing a medical examination and agreeing personal terms.”
Bassong also reiterated his desire to play at the highest level, especially in the year leading up to the World Cup –
“Playing for Newcastle was a real honour in front of the supporters at St James’ Park,” he said.
“But I have always said that I wanted to play in the Premier League and that wasn’t possible with Newcastle.
“It was not good for my career to be at a Championship club. I want to play in future World Cups and African Cup of Nations competitions with Cameroon.
“That is made more difficult if you are not playing at the higher level.”
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