Goalkeeper Paul Robinson could be an Aston Villa player by the end of the week after Tottenham Hotspur confirmed they have spent £7million on PSV Eindhoven’s Huerelho Gomes.

The arrival of Brazillian Gomes from the Dutch side should now hasten the expected departure from North London of former England No 1 Robinson, who has been the subject of much speculation this summer surrounding a proposed £5million switch to Villa Park.

Gomes has long made his feelings known over wantring a move to England and will sign subject to the agreement of personal terms and a medical.

He is expected to agree a four-year deal at White Hart Lane, although Spurs still have to apply for a work permit.

Robinson recently hinted that he was keen on a move away from White Hart Lane and favoured Villa as he tries to reclaim his England no 1 jersey from the hands of Portsmouth’s David James.

Villa boss Martin O’Neill decided against the option of taking Scott Carson on a permanent basis after his season-long loan deal from Liverpool last season and has also released Thomas Sorensen, leaving Stuart Taylor the club’s only current custodian of the posts.

A source close to the player said last week: “”Paul would welcome the opportunity to join a club like Aston Villa. He believes the manager can help to bring the best out of him. Paul realises his chances of playing regularly at Tottenham look unlikely and feels such a move wouldhelp to resurrect his career.”