Tottenham agreed to sign Wigan fullback Pascal
Chimbonda on Thursday for a fee reported to be six million pounds
($12.6 million Cdn).
Chimbonda handed in a transfer request at Wigan on the final day
of last season. He was named in the French World Cup squad but
didn't make an appearance in the tournament. He's played once for
France, in a friendly against Denmark in May.
``I think we have been strong enough to hold out for what we
think Pascal is worth,'' Wigan manager Paul Jewell said.
``No one knew the name Pascal Chimbonda in this country 12 months
ago, now he is one of the most recognizable faces in the
Premiership.''
The move means more competition for Canadian fullback Paul
Stalteri, a starter with Spurs last season at right back.
Chimbonda, 27, joined Wigan on a three-year deal from French club
Bastia in July 2005. Spurs also signed midfielder Steed Malbranque
from Fulham on Thursday.
Wigan signed winger Kevin Kilbane from Everton on Thursday on a
three-year deal, with the option for a further year.
The 29-year-old Ireish international made 131 appearances for
Everton after joining from Sunderland three years ago. He's also
played with West Bromwich Albion and Preston.
``He brings something that we just haven't got at the club _ a
naturally left-footed attacking player,'' Jewell said.
© The Canadian Press, 2007
