Robinson's career statistics

The 24-year-old Leeds goalkeeper passed a medical and agreed terms with Spurs.

But the London club claim the deal foundered because of "Premier League rules".

On Tuesday, caretaker manager David Pleat said: "I would expect Paul Robinson to sign for us in the summer."

In a statement on Monday, a club spokesman had said: "After reaching an agreement with Leeds United, Paul Robinson successfully completed a medical and agreed personal terms with us.

"This transaction would have seen Paul join us in the summer.

"Premier League rules however, have prevented the conclusion of the transfer at this particular time because they state that you cannot pay for a player in advance of him joining you.

"Paul is a player we greatly admire and we certainly hope to confirm this deal at the next available opportunity."

Leeds chief executive Trevor Birch said: "I can confirm that discussions did take place between the clubs and the player but no agreement was reached."

Birch added: "Paul is looking forward to staying at the club and playing his part in the fight for Premiership survival."

Leeds would have agreed to sell the goalkeeper to aid their ailing finances - with the club up to �100m in debt and trying to stave off administration.

Nigel Martyn's former understudy, who made his England debut against Australia in February 2003, and remains one of the club's most valuable assets.

Leeds snap up Caldwell

Robinson is expected to be given the number one shirt ahead of the 34-year-old Kasey Keller should he agree a deal.

USA international Keller's only competition at Spurs presently comes from the inexperienced Canadian keeper Lars Hirschfeld.

Leeds had already launched a bid to sign an understudy to Robinson on a month's loan regardless of any move.

Boss Eddie Gray is keen to bring in a more experienced goalkeeper.

Scott Carson has just one senior game under his belt, having made his debut as Robinson's replacement at the weekend.