Zokora had an outstanding World Cup for the Ivory Coast

The 25-year-old St Etienne star played every minute of the Elephants' World Cup games and also helped them finish second in the African Cup of Nations.

Spurs boss Martin Jol said: "Didier was regarded as one of the best midfield players going into the World Cup and he proved that in the group stage.

"A lot of clubs were after him, we had to compete for his services and he is a very good signing."

Zokora's arrival will increase speculation that England international Michael Carrick could be on his way out of White Hart Lane.

Manchester United are tracking Carrick, although Jol says he is reluctant to let him leave.

A graduate of the ASEC Abidjan academy that has developed many of the current generation of Ivory Coast internationals, Zokora joined RC Genk of Belgium in 2000 and was a member of their title-winning team of 2002.

In 2004 he was brought to St Etienne by Spurs sporting director Damien Comolli, who was then working for the French club.

"He is a player I know well and I believe he is an excellent signing for us," said Comolli.

"Didier has had two good years in France and an impressive World Cup.

"Martin was well aware of him also and he was one of the first players he talked to me about when I arrived."

Zokara said: "I am very proud to come here and I think it is a great club.

"I am extremely happy because I think there are a lot of really good players here and I am glad to be joining them.

"The core of the team is very young and we can build for the long term. This is something which really attracted me to the club."