HANSA SIGN SCHOBER

The 24-year-old keeper, who is currently on loan at Hamburg, has committed himself to a three-year contract.

He is expected to replace Hansa's current shot-stopper Martin Pieckenhagen, who will leave Rostock for Hamburg in the summer.

Schober started his career in Schalke and even gained the starting job in the club at the start of last season.

Schalke coach Huub Stevens opted to promote veteran Oliver Reck to the regular job, though, and Schober was allowed to join Hamburg on a loan deal during this season.

Since the custodian left the club Schalke manager Rudi Assauer have given new contracts to reserve keepers Frode Grodas and Toni Tapalovic and Schober was told to search out a new club for next season.

Schober now looks forward to play for Hansa, saying: "I want to become Hansa's No.1 and I think I can reach this goal.

"I know that it will be difficult to replace Pieckenhagen, who is very popular in Rostock, but I was also a fan favourite in Schalke and my performances will persuade the fans."