Kraft signs for Hertha Berlin

Hertha Berlin, the 2.Bundesliga champions, have signed Bayern Munich goalkeeper Thomas Kraft for their promotion season next term.

Hertha sewed up the German second tier title with a 2-0 away win at Erzgebirge Aue on Sunday, and they have added the talented 22-year-old shot-stopper to their stocks for their top-flight season, with Kraft signing a four-year deal after completing a free transfer.

Kraft was touted to take over as Bayern’s number one custodian in goal, but several errors this campaign put doubt over whether he could maintain the position at the German powerhouse.

Bayern have also signalled their intent to sign Schalke goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, and Kraft took the opportunity to move to another Bundesliga club for next campaign.

“Hertha BSC is a big challenge for me,” Kraft told the club’s official website.

“General manager Michael Preetz and coach Markus Babbel have completely convinced me with their vision for Hertha.”

“I am really looking forward to going with Hertha on their way into the Bundesliga.”

Dutch ‘keeper Maikel Aerts spent the most time in goal for Hertha this campaign, and will be contending with Kraft for the number one spot.

Other goalkeepers on the club’s books include 39-year-old Marco Sejna, Sascha Burchert and teenager Richard Strebinger.