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Jens Lehmann secures Stuttgart switch

03/06/2008

Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has signed a one-year contract with Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart.

The 38-year-old had been expected to leave the Gunners in the closed season since manager Arsene Wenger confirmed his substitute appearance in the final home match of last season would be his last for the club.

It had been rumoured Lehmann was keen to leave the north London club in January in order to gain the first-team football he needed to guarantee his place as first-choice goalkeeper for the German national side.

However after a series of injuries to fellow stopper Manuel Almunia, Lehmann was persuaded to remain at the Emirates Stadium and see out the season before leaving on a free transfer when his contract expired this summer.

Commenting on his move, Lehmann said: "From the outset, the discussions I had with VfB Stuttgart were very pleasant.

"I look forward to playing for VfB and in the Bundesliga and would like to contribute to a successful season in 2008/09."

Stuttgart's sporting director Horst Heldt added: "We are very glad Jens Lehmann has decided to sign.

"He is an outstanding goalkeeper and has great national and international experience.

"He fits perfectly into our requirement profile and we are convinced of the fact that he will quickly become an important part of the team."

Club coach Armin Veh concluded by saying Lehmann is his "first-choice candidate" to play in goal for his side next season, adding his belief that his "undisputed qualities" would "benefit the entire squad".