Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has signed a one-year extension to his contract, ending speculation over the player's future at the Emirates Stadium.

Lehmann's previous deal was due to expire in the summer and there had been speculation that, at 37, the German may be ready to for a return to the Bundesliga - with Hertha Berlin thought to be interested.

Spanish outfit Sevilla were another club reportedly interested in signing Lehmann, who joined the Gunners in 2003, but he will now remain in London next season.

Lehmann had been eager to secure his future with a two-year extension but Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has long persisted with a policy of offering senior players 12-month extensions.

The goalkeeper, who will be 38 in November, moved to England from Borussia Dortmund, following previous spells with AC Milan and Schalke, where he started his career.

The news is not a big surprise for Arsenal fans after Lehmann yesterday told Bild newspaper: "I will play another season for Arsenal. It is a big club with prospects.

"I do not have to sign for two years, it is not a problem. It is more important for me to be playing in the Champions League next season."