Lehmann joins Stuttgart on a free

Jens Lehmann has left Arsenal for Stuttgart on a one-year deal. He has been a free agent this summer.

The German number one, Jens Lehmann has joined 2007 German champions, Stuttgart on a one-year contract. The 38-year old keeper had lost his place to Manuel Almunia last season though he has retained his place with the national team.

Lehmann did not extend his contract with Arsenal and became a free agent this summer.Stuttgart have been looking for a new goalkeeper following a poor season by Raphael Schafer and feel that Lehmann will be the new number one.

"Jens was our top candidate from the very beginning for the goalkeeper position," Armin Veh, the Stuttgart coach, said.

"His qualities are undeniable and the whole team will benefit from his experience."

Jens Lehmann said that he is looking forward to play in the Bundesliga and help Stuttgart succeed in the next season.

"The talks with the Stuttgart management team were very pleasant from the word go," he said.

"I am looking forward to VfB and the Bundesliga and hope to play my part in a successful season 2008/09."