Paulinho said he will find it difficult to "turn down" an offer from Tottenham, as the North London side close in on the Brazilian and Corinthians midfielder.

Spurs have matched Paulinho's buyout clause of €20 million (£17 million, $26 million), as Andre Villas-Boas looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season.

Paulinho has also been heavily linked with Italian clubs Inter Milan and Roma, but the 24-year-old admitted he is looking forward to playing in the English Premier League.

"I feel I am ready to experience football at the highest level in Europe and the opportunity to play in England is a dream," Paulinho said.

"It's a great pleasure to be linked to such a great club like Tottenham. They have a reputation as one of the great clubs in England who play exciting, attacking football which suits my style.

"I couldn't turn them down if they made me an offer. It would be a fantastic opportunity to play for Tottenham."

Corinthians director of football Edu had confirmed Spurs' firm interest and Corinthians director Duilio Monteiro Alves said the club will discuss the move with the Paulinho, once he returns from the Confederations Cup.

"The buy-out fee is €20 million and Corinthians can't do anything," Alves told UOL. "We'll talk with him.

"Paulinho already knows about the offer, we told him.

"He asked to wait until he returns from the national team. When he comes, the final decision will be made."

Spurs are desperate to bring in a few quality signings in the summer, to not just make a sustained charge for a top four place next season, but also to persuade Gareth Bale that his future indeed lies at White Hart Lane.

Real Madrid are chasing the Welsh forward's signature and while Bale has said he plans to stay another season, at the very least, bringing in quality players in the mould of Paulinho will certainly help Spurs in convincing their best player of the club's ambition.