Former Manchester United goalkeeper Ron-Robert Zieler to become Leicester City's first summer signing

Leicester City are on the verge of completing the signing of former Manchester United goalkeeper Ron-Robert Zieler. The 27-year-old is currently at Hannover 96 and they confirmed on their official website that the German international will travel to England to undergo medical as he is said to be Claudio Ranieri's first summer signing.

A statement reads: "Ron-Robert Zieler has exercised its option right enshrined in his contract and Hannover 96 has been informed that he will travel to the English champions Leicester City for contract talks. In addition, the 27-year-old goalkeeper will complete the sports medical examinations in England."

Zieler came up the ranks of the Red Devils' youth system and was promoted to the first team by Sir Alex Ferguson. However, lack of playing time at Old Trafford saw him join the German club in 2010.

Hannover were relegated from the Bundesliga after they finished at the bottom of the table in 2015/16 season. Earlier in April, the stopper confirmed that he would leave his current employers in the summer.

Martin Bader, Hannover's sporting director, claims the club were aware that Zieler would leave the club as he had expressed his desire to play in the top division. He said: "We have always been aware that Ron would want to play in a top division with his outstanding qualities."

"Should the negotiations prove positive for him, we wish him all the best. Ron will always be welcome back at Hannover."

According to the Guardian, Zieler has €3.5m (£2.6m, $3.9m) release clause in his contract and Leicester are willing to meet his asking price. The Foxes have Kasper Schmeichel as the first choice goalkeeper in the squad and the arrival of the German will see him provide competition to Schmeichel.