Published: 1 August 2013

By AKSHAY PATEL

CARDIFF City have completed the signing of Spurs defender Steven Caulker. The deal is believed to be around £8million – breaking the Premiership new boys' club transfer record.

The centre back – who scored in his only appearance for England – has signed a four year contract with the Welsh side.

Caulker praised Spurs for their contribution to his career – and is excited about starting a new 'chapter' in his life. He said: “I thank Tottenham for everything they’ve done for me, having been there since I was a kid. But I’m here to back myself up now and show what I can do. This is a fresh start, a new chapter and I’m here to kick on.”

However, Swansea's Angel Rangel who was Caulker's team-mate while the centre back was on loan at Swansea two years ago, says he is confused by his move.

He said: "Being an England international and playing for Spurs, with respect, you would expect him to go to a big club. He could play for Arsenal or these kind of teams. He’s gone to Cardiff for some reason, I didn’t expect it, but he knows he will probably be playing regularly, week-in, week-out.

Caulker's departure means that Spurs only have one fit first team centre back – Micheal Dawson – with Jan Vertonghen and Younes Kaboul out injured.