Bayern Munich have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Alexander Nubel on a free transfer at the end of the season.
It was confirmed over the weekend that the 23-year-old is to leave Schalke when his contract expires next summer.
"Following all the discussions that we have had with Alexander Nubel and his agent in recent months, we aren't surprised by his decision and of course respect it, " sporting director Jochen Schneider explained .
"However, we don't need to understand his decision.
"In recent months, we have clearly shown through words and actions how much of a central role he could have played with us in the future: a role that entails leading a very young team, which has already won over many admirers in the first half of the season, as goalkeeper and as captain.
"I'm convinced that Alex will give everything for the club until the end of the season. From summer 2020, we will continue on our path without him."
And the latest reports state that Nubel is set to join Bayern Munich.
Bild claim that the stopper has agreed a five-year-deal with the Bundesliga giants which will come into affect from July 1, 2020.
Furthermore, the report stats that the plan for Nubel is to initially act as the number 2 behind Manuel Neuer and then to replace the club captain when he stops playing in 2023.
Bayern's move for Nubel would seemingly rule out Arsenal's Bernd Leno heading to the Allianz Arena.
Last month there were reports that the Gunners no.1 was being lined up as Neuer's long-term replacement , but it would appear that Nubel has been selected for that role and that's great news for Mikel Arteta.
Despite the north London outfit's struggles defensively this season, Leno has emerged with some credit for the sheer number of saves he's made in the Premier League and it looks like he will be staying put for a while longer.
