Confederations Cup hero Paulinho can’t wait to sign for Tottenham - because he has been told Gareth Bale is staying at the London club, The Mirror reports.

The £17million-rated Corinthians midfielder - who headed the winning goal in Brazil’s midweek semi-final against Uruguay - is set to play against Spain in Sunday night's final.

He is then poised to confirm a summer switch to White Hart Lane and is excited at the prospect of playing for manager Andre Villas-Boas - and alongside Real Madrid target Bale

Paulinho, 24, said: “It is important for the team and for the Brazilian fans that at the moment all my focus is on winning the Confederations Cup.

“But after the tournament is finished I hope it is a deal that can get finalised quickly.”