He will stay in charge of France throughout Euro 2004, but will take over at Spurs after the tournament.

Spurs sacked their last manager Glenn Hoddle in September and ever since David Pleat has been caretaker boss.

Santini said: "I am an ambitious man and it has always been a dream of mine to coach a big English club in the most exciting league in the world."

With Santini in charge France have lost only once in 23 games and qualified for Euro 2004 by winning all of their group games, conceding just two goals.

Before that he managed French side Lyon to the French title in 2002.