The New Nation - Internet Edition

AFP, Moscow

Spartak Moscow's Russian international striker Roman Pavyuchenko is set to sign for English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, local media reported here today.

"I can confirm that I'm moving to Tottenham. I will fly to England as soon as I receive an English entry visa," Pavlyuchenko told the press.

Spartak spokesman Eduard Nissenboim confirmed that Pavlyuchenko was very close to the move but that no papers had been signed yet.

"We have just reached a verbal agreement," Nissenboim said. "But Pavlyuchenko is likely join Tottenham in the nearest future."

Spartak signed Pavlyuchenko from Volgograd in 2003. He has played 145 matches for the nine-time Russian champions, scoring 75 goals.

The 26-year-old forward has 22 caps for Russia, scoring nine goals.