Defoe signs for Toronto

Jermain Defoe has agreed to join Toronto from Tottenham, with the deal set to start from February 28.

The England international striker has ended months of speculation linking him with a move to the MLS side in a move that sees a reunion with Toronto head coach and former Tottenham team-mate Ryan Nelson.

The exact terms of Defoe’s contract at Toronto have yet to be disclosed.

Defoe has been utilised mainly as a substitute this season, starting just three of Tottenham’s 20 Premier League fixtures, although he scored seven goals in five UEFA Europa League appearances.

The former West Ham forward has now vowed to give his all for Tottenham before he heads to Canada next month.

“Everybody knows how much this club means to me,” he said.

“I will play my heart out for the team and the fans until my last kick for the club.”

Tottenham head coach Tim Sherwood added: “This is a great opportunity for Jermain and he feels it is one that he wishes to pursue.”

Defoe – who has had two spells with the White Hart Lane club – should still be available for seven Premier League fixtures, as well as potentially participating in the Europa League tie with Dnipro.

The 31-year-old is looking for regular first-team football in order to force his way into the England squad for the FIFA World Cup in Brazil later this year.