Khumalo celebrates his World Cup goal in the 2-1 victory over France
New signing Bongani Khumalo has vowed to fight for a place in the Tottenham first team after the centre back's £1.5 million transfer was confirmed.
Despite facing competition from such players as William Gallas, Ledley King, Michael Dawson and Sebastien Bassong, Khumalo believes he can make an impact.
"At 23, I think I'm ready to challenge for a place in the first team," he told BBC Sport.
The South African will move in January subject to receiving a work permit.
"It may take a bit of time to settle in but I've played at the World Cup and I have the confidence in my ability to play in the Premier League.
"[Tottenham manager] Harry Redknapp's shown a lot of faith in my ability and I hope to be able to repay that," he told BBC Sport.
The SuperSport United player was also quick to deny suggestions that he may be sent on loan to gain experience of English football.
Bongani has been an exceptional player for SuperSport. Everyone at the club wishes him well at Tottenham
SuperSport chairman Khulu Sibaya
"I think the manager is hoping I will be able to fit in to his plans straight away and I believe I'm good enough to do that," he said.
The transfer caps a remarkable year for the Swaziland-born star, who joined the reigning South African champions in 2007 while still studying for a degree.
He had previously turned down a chance to join Manchester United and Chelsea after impressing for Arcadia Shepherds as a 16-year-old at a youth tournament in Northern Ireland.
"His mother insisted that he didn't go so that he could complete his [exams] first because that was always very important to her," explained his agent Glyn Binkin.
"I think that has played a role in how well he has progressed - it shows that you do have enough time to study and pursue a professional football career as well."
Those studies have since been shelved as Khumalo captained SuperSport side to three straight league titles before winning a place in South Africa's World Cup squad.
This move will only help Bongani grow more and in return it will benefit South Africa
Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane
He played every minute of Bafana Bafana's World Cup, scoring in the 2-1 win over France.
Spurs then took advantage of the long-term partnership set up with SuperSport three years ago to bring Khumalo to White Hart Lane.
"It's a wonderful opportunity and one that I've been waiting for all my life," admitted Khumalo.
"It's always been my dream to play in England and I love what I've seen of London so far - I'm looking forward to making it my home."
With South Africa's average ranking over the last two years below the required 70th position, there are doubts whether Khumalo will qualify for a work permit under strict Home Office rules.
But Binkin denied that such complications will scupper any move.
"Spurs will look after the permit when the time is right but we are very confident he will get it," he stated.
"Bongani played in every World Cup game for South Africa so he is clearly someone who can compete at the highest level."
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