"We always had in the back of our minds that even if nothing really happened in the transfer window, it would be like having two new signings with Simon and Sean Davis both coming back." The signing of Reid and Dawson for a combined fee of £8m brought to an end 12 months of trying.
Even on deadline day their offer was initially turned down, but White Hart Lane sources claim Forest chairman Nigel Doughty reconsidered after pressure from his board.
Republic of Ireland winger Reid, 22, said: "I am just delighted to get it done. It has been talked about for a long time and now I am thrilled it has all gone through. I am looking forward to playing Premiership football.
"I had no hesitation over signing. Tottenham are such a big club and they are bringing lots of young players through. I just want to be part of that. It is important on the international front as well, but my main priority is to win a place in the Spurs team."
Dawson said: "When the chance to come to a place like this came along I made up my mind straight away. I can't wait to pull the shirt on and, hopefully, do well."
Tottenham's first big bid for the Forest pair was made during last January's transfer window when David Pleat was in charge and Paul Hart was Forest's manager. Spurs have repeatedly tried to convince Forest to sell and held talks during the reign of Jacques Santini as well as Martin Jol.
At the City Ground, Joe Kinnear and Mick Harford, in addition to Hart, have been in charge while negotiations have been active. But when Gary Megson took over three weeks ago, he demanded the situation was resolved.
Arnesen is confident both players will prove to be worth the effort. He said: "Reid is a very good player. He can play as a left winger, down the right side or just behind the striker.
"Dawson is a great prospect and outside his obvious playing talents, he has a leadership quality in his personality. These are young players who will not only add to our squad now but will take us forward in the next couple of years."
Mido and Cerny are both in the squad for tonight's game at Bolton.
