Bayern Munich sign goalkeeper Sven Ulreich

German Champions Bayern Munich have announced the signing of Stuttgart goalkeeper Sven Ulreich.

Ulreich becomes Bayern’s first signing of the season as they have bolstered their goalkeeping options with Ulreich providing backup to German number one, Manuel Neuer.

The 26-year old penned a three year deal with the Bavarian club.

Ulreich in a statement stated, “After many years at Stuttgart, I was looking for a new challenge and I am at the right place to find that at Bayern.”

Ulreich also recognised that he won’t be the first choice keeper ahead of Neuer, further adding: “I want to be there when I am needed and contribute to the club’s success.”

Ulreich spent his youth days at Stuttgart too as he ends his senior career with 220 Bundesliga appearances for the club since 2008.

Ulreich has spent 17 years of his footballing career at the club and they have respected his choice to face new challenges by signing for the German Champions.

He made 28 Bundesliga appearances for VfB Stuttgart club last season.

Ulreich is set to serve as backup to Manuel Neuer as former Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina seeks a return to Napoli.

Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge confirmed last week that Bayern will be searching replacements for Pepe Reina as he wants to leave the club. He told Sport Bild: “Pepe Reina asked us for a transfer. He wants to play. He probably hoped to cope with his reserve-keeper role better than he did. I’d like to think that he will return to Napoli.”

Bild has reported that the transfer fee is around 3 million Euros.