New Tottenham signing Alan Hutton was desperate not to leave Rangers, it has been revealed.

The Times says in going to Spurs, the blunt truth remains that Hutton didn't want to leave Rangers. As recently as Monday evening he told one of his main confidants at Ibrox that he was adamant he didn't want to be sold. But Rangers have won the battle in emphasising to Hutton that Tottenham's offer of £9 million was one neither he nor the club could turn down.

The Scotland international full-back flew to London yesterday to tie up the deal, though it has turned into a messy business. Hutton's original agent, John Lonergan, was evicted from the negotiations at an early stage, as Sir David Murray, the Rangers chairman, signalled his intention to push the deal through.

The transfer of Hutton represents a marvellous windfall for Rangers but has left the player leaving Ibrox with a heavy heart and unconvinced he is making the right move. Hutton will receive wages of around £30,000 a week at White Hart Lane, if it proves any consolation.

Hutton's former Gers teammate Chris Burke said: "Alan has had many sleepless nights and it has been a very difficult decision for him.

"Money is not everything in football, you have to be happy. He's had to think about his family, his friends, and he's got a little kid with another one on the way. These things have put in perspective what is really important to him. I just hope Alan is doing what he wants to do."